SPORTING heroes from Huddersfield’s past hope future generations will benefit from a new sports centre in the town.
Both Anita Lonsbrough and Derek Ibbotson trained in the town and went on to achieve Olympics glory.
Now both have spoken out on multi-million pound proposals to get rid of the existing Huddersfield Sports Centre – and two tower blocks of flats built bearing their names.
Ms Lonsbrough, now living in Wolverhampton, said: “It’ll be a sad day but if the flats aren’t suitable they have to come down.
“I was very honoured Huddersfield had chosen to name something after me. But it was sad every time I came back to Huddersfield to see how they had deteriorated.
“As long as something good comes out of it and it will help the people of Huddersfield I’ll be happy.
“Hopefully the new sports centre will have a nice swimming pool – hopefully an Olympic sized bath!”
Mr Ibbotson, who lives in Ossett, said: “When the flats opened I was very proud for myself and Anita. It’s a proud moment when your town recognises what you’ve done.
“When it fell into decay I was disappointed but it still meant a lot to me.
“I suppose apartments like these aren’t needed anymore and the town will get a lot of money from Tesco building on their land.
“I’ll be a bit sad to see the buildings go but I’m glad Kirklees is going to build a better sports centre.
“It would be nice to transfer my name and Anita’s to the new centre.
“You’ve got to look to the future and better facilities for sports people in the future.
“I’ll have to live a bit longer to see the new sports centre!”
A spokesman for Kirklees Council said: “We have written to Anita and Derek advising them of the major regeneration proposals that will include the demolition of the blocks of flats that took their names in recognition of their sporting achievements.
“The regeneration package will see a new £26m sports centre for the town and we will do everything possible to ensure, with their approval, that any new building celebrates and recognises their continued significance to the town through their individual sporting achievements.”
The flats, designed by architect Sidney Richmond, featured the latest technology of the time including thermostatic underfloor heating and wiring for television.
Rents for Lonsbrough Flats in 1961 were 36s 2d a week for a one bedroom flat.
Richmond Flats – named after their designer – opened shortly after.
Despite the lofty ambitions of the designers, Lonsbrough, Ibbotson and Richmond Flats have been plagued by vandalism, crime and anti-social behaviour.
As early as 1974, Kirklees Councillors received an ‘SOS’ from pensioners complaining of isolation, high noise levels and regular intimidation.
Since then the building has been criticised for it poor construction, crime rate and ugly appearance.
Last year Kirklees Council announced plans to level Ibbotson Flats to improve Huddersfield Town Centre and views of the Galpharm Stadium.
