Opinions are dividided over the impact a major superstore development can have on a town and its traditional trade. Reporter Joanne Douglas looked at Brighouse and Elland for views on Tesco and Morrisons' developments and plans.
RESIDENTS often put a major effort into keeping the major supermarkets out of their town centres.
But Elland is a different matter – they’ve embraced a supermarket chain wanting to build in the town.
Councillors say the town has dwindled as those around it bloom.
And hope of turning that around has been put in the hands of Morrisons, who will open a store in the town next year after a decade-long fight to get a supermarket for Elland.
The town has also been boosted by a grant of almost £34,000 which Calderdale Council say community groups can use to benefit it.
Clr John Ford (pictured inset) described Elland as having been “neglected for 30 years”.
He said: “The main thing which we hope will bring about change is the Morrisons supermarket.
“Elland has been neglected in Calderdale while many of the towns surrounding it are thriving – Elland has certainly missed out when it comes to developments, both from private investors and the council.
“If you look at what’s happened in Brighouse with the new swimming pool, the library, the gallery, it’s had investment. Hebden Bridge is the same, as is Todmorden, but Elland has missed out and hasn’t had a look in for 30 years.
“Most places don’t want big supermarkets but Elland is the exact opposite – we’ve had people actively campaigning for one rather than opposing it.”
For the last decade supermarkets have been competing to open in the town but applications have never been approved.
In May two went up against each other – the Morrisons plan for land bounded by the Elland-Riorges link and Wistons Lane, was approved.
But plans for an Asda were postponed over highways issues.
Clr Ford added: “The hope is Morrisons will be open next November and it can’t come soon enough.
“People in Elland go elsewhere, they go into Halifax, Brighouse or Huddersfield.
“Morrisons will breathe new life into the town, the road network will improve, there will be walking links with the town centre and it will kick-start a much brighter future.”
He said the council had secured a government grant for improvements: “It’s only £33,000 but it’s better than nothing,” he added.
Calderdale Council has just announced a new funding programme will make £33,910 available to community organisations in Elland over the next few years.
The council spokeswoman added: “Community First is an £80m government-funded initiative that will run until March 2015.
“The scheme will help communities come together to identify their strengths and local priorities in order to plan for their future and become more resilient. People will be encouraged to give time, expertise and resources towards projects they identify in their areas.
“The government will match these pound for pound, helping to stimulate local action towards meeting community needs.
“Local groups and organisations will be able to apply for funds of between £250 and £2,500 towards projects benefiting Elland.”
