DERELICT shops and flats described by a resident as a ‘monstrosity’ are to be demolished.

The site at Harpe Inge, Dalton, was described as such by Lesley Frowen, of Longfield and Ridgeway Tenants’ and Residents’ Association, who also said it was used by drug dealers.

But Kirklees Council’s Cabinet has now decided to build a new £1m library, information and children’s centre there.

Clr Liz Smaje, the Cabinet member responsible for libraries and information centres, said: “The site is badly in need of redevelopment. As well as providing a good location for the joint centre it will have a positive effect on the area and help promote community spirit.”

Clr Jim Dodds, the Cabinet member responsible for children’s centres, also welcomed the decision.

He said: “We identified Dalton and Rawthorpe as one of the areas for a children’s centre, so it made sense to combine such a facility with a new library and information centre as this allows us to offer a range of services on one site.

“Detailed plans will be prepared and will be the subject of full consultation with residents and interested groups.”

Dalton Labour councillor Angela Ellam believes pressure from her and party colleague Clr Peter McBride has paid off.

She said: “We have fought extremely hard for the centre to go on this site. It was not the Cabinet’s preferred location, but we convinced them it was the best option for the area.

“We expect work to commence very quickly and the building to be completed in the next two years.”