AMBITIOUS proposals to redevelop the heart of Huddersfield town centre were unveiled today.

Kirklees Council chiefs are proposing massive changes, which could see the end of landmark buildings.

Familiar sites facing the axe include the library and art gallery and Queensgate Market hall.

Both would get multi-million-pound replacements in a massive scheme to clear outdated buildings.

The project could also see new shops being built on the piazza.

And the multi-storey car park next to the market could be replaced by a new one.

The council's deputy leader said today that the changes would provide a huge boost in an area needing a major change and facelift.

Clr John Smithson said: "If it is possible to put together a package that takes in all these exciting possibilities it could transform Huddersfield into one of the most modern centres in the region."

The council Cabinet meets next Wednesday and will be asked to approve the hiring of specialist consultants to draw up a detailed plan.

Council chiefs have been forced to act because the library and art gallery building needs £5m repairs.

It would be short-sighted to look at the building in isolation, added Clr Smithson.

"Hence the idea of looking at ideas to modernise the whole of that area," he said.

Clr Smithson said something had to be done about the library, whatever happened.

Its steel framework has corroded, the heating needs replacing and lifts refurbishing.

Clr Smithson said: "It is in a poor condition and goes nowhere towards meeting today's needs.

"Would spending £5m on repairs to an old building that would still not be able to provide modern services be a good investment?

"Or would it be better to spend a bit more on building a new state-of-the-art library and art gallery fit for the 21st century?"

He stressed that the idea was at its early stages and there were no specific proposals, as yet.

The people of Huddersfield are being urged to have their say.

Clr Smithson concluded: "Let's test the water. There's nothing to lose and potentially much to gain."

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