BOOKINGS by groups using Cleckheaton Town Hall have increased since new meeting space was created.

Kirklees Council spent £65,000 buying back and converting the old caretaker's house next to the civic building.

Meetings and classes are held there, such as those run by the University of the Third Age for the over 50s.

It has also provided much-needed additional changing room and green room facilities for amateur dramatic and dance companies.

More improvements are in the pipeline.

Local councillor Ann Raistrick said: "These include new internal and external signs and an internal communications system which should be completed by the end of this financial year."

The Town Hall lift will also be improved as it is too small and has to be changed to comply with legislation.