Major investment to revitalise town

That was the message from regeneration board chairman Paul Kane as he welcomed news of a Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) grant worth almost £2m.

Coun Kane (Lab, Dews East) said: “This is very good news for the town and a shot in the arm for the hard work of officers working with the regeneration board.

“I would like to thank all those involved in the bid. It should bring back much needed confidence in our team at a time of austerity.”

The money will be used to transform buildings in the north western area of Dewsbury town centre, including Grade II listed Pioneer House.

Offically announcing the funding, regional HLF boss Fiona Spiers said: “Our Townscape Heritage schemes put historic-environment conservation at the heart of regeneration.

“Local, regional, and national organisations work together to make a real difference to our deprived towns and cities and their communities, not only enabling conservation of the fabric of the town but also helping local businesses to grow.”

The lottery cash will be added to £1.6m already set aside by the council.

Kirklees Cabinet member Coun Cathy Scott said: “This boost from the Heritage Lottery will help the scheme to rejuvenate the Victorian heritage of Dewsbury go ahead and will bring some of the town’s most prominent landmarks back into use and secure their future on the town’s skyline.”

“We will work closely with building owners to produce high quality refurbishments of retail and office spaces which will encourage local people, visitors and businesses into this beautiful town.”