“It’s about time they sorted out Castle Hill. We need a building for tourists to get refreshments, take in the sights and stay dry.”
Examiner readers have been speaking out on a bid by the Thandi Partnership to build a cafe/restaurant with bedrooms on the site of the old Castle Hill Hotel.
The Thandis plan a ‘public-private’ scheme that will provide visitor facilities, space for educational and research work and supervision of the site.
Although no plans have been submitted the Thandi Partnership – brothers Mick and Barry Thandi – want to resume plans to develop the site.
Their ideas have received a mixed reaction, with many readers pointing out that it was the Thandi brothers who were in charge last time when planning conditions were breached and a partially re-built pub was ordered to be demolished.
On Facebook Simon Alsop said: “Perhaps if the Thandi brothers stuck to the original plans in the first place, there would already be something there.
“Personally I don’t think the Thandi brothers should be allowed anywhere near the site again.”
Others came up with suggestions of their own for the historic site.
Peter Tiernan said: “I suggest a circular building with panoramic windows upstairs for a cafe and ground floor resource centre for local school etc.”
Julie Martyn added: “Yes, it certainly needs something. But NOT a modern looking building! Of course that’s going to be cheaper than a stone building in keeping with the area so that’s what will happen.”
Jade Stead welcomed the Thandi Partnership idea, saying: “Good stuff. Since the pub went on Castle Hill it is really missing something up there. I hope it goes ahead.”
Emma Brunning, like many people, has mixed views on what the site needs.
She said: “I have mixed views about this, being an archaeologist.
“It would be nice if a visitor centre which was accessible all year was up there, with a cafe and toilets.
“The Jubilee Tower is open during summer with very old information boards. I used to work there about 17 years ago and they are still the same.”
Rita Phillips commented: “I am surprised the Thandis are still involved. They are the reason the pub was demolished in the first place. Personally I would give a genuine local builder the job. Someone who is interested in improving Huddersfield not just to make money.”
Ruth Taylor added: “It probably needs something up there but I’m not sure a restaurant with bedrooms is the way to go.”
Anthony Hirst said it was “about time” something was built, adding: “I personally haven’t been up there at all since there’s nothing to go for. Give us a reason to visit.
“It’s got some amazing views but we need more than just a viewing platform.”
Pre-application talks will take place on Thursday so that the Thandis can get councillors’ views before pursuing the ideas further.
