WE’VE got a fabulous heritage in Huddersfield.
And now Huddersfield Civic Society has proposed to do something about it.
They have come up with an idea of a heritage trail and blue plaque scheme in Huddersfield.
It will mean the town’s famous sons and daughters and some of the iconic buildings could be earmarked for a special mention.
Prof Cedric Cullingford, who chairs the Civic Society, explained the proposal to a the Huddersfield Area Committee Joint Town Centre Sub Group, which strongly supported the idea.
Prof Cullingford said that the Civic Society has been working on plans to involve the public of Huddersfield in identifying buildings and locations of interest to the community and of historical and architectural significance.
It is seeking to compile information about the trail and for the locations to be identified by blue plaques.
The plan is to involve as many people as possible in identifying the sites that most interest them, so that the community as a whole becomes part of the process.
The plaques and the heritage trails will celebrate the town centre and enhance its attractions. It is planned to be a rolling programme.
Clr John Smithson, who chairs the Sub Group, said: “Huddersfield town centre holds many attractions.
“Its buildings and architecture reflect the history of the communities that have been resident over the years and we need to acknowledge the memories of local people.
“This will enrich the value of the town and pass this on to visitors and future generations. We are very enthusiastic about this scheme and are keen to offer our support.”
He said deciding which buildings merited blue plaques had yet to be determined and said he hoped many people would contribute.
“From my point of view, we need to be looking at obvious buildings such as the Railway Station, the Town Hall, but perhaps also ones like the old Bath House in Lockwood, which used to house a spa.
“From the point of view of people, we have the homes of Harold Wilson, Lord Hanson and James Mason, all of which could merit inclusion in a heritage trail.
“They need to be of real merit and interest”.
The Huddersfield Joint Town Centre Sub Group has a track record of supporting and developing projects and initiatives that enhance the appearance of the town centre.
The Civic Society was asked to start by developing a set of criteria against which proposals could be judged.
A spokesman said they wanted to stimulate public interest and pride in caring for the town in the tasteful treatment of its existing buildings and in the improvements of its amenities. “We welcome new buildings of quality which are in sympathy with their surroundings even if this involves the demolition of existing buildings.
“Examples of good new buildings are the Galpharm Stadium, the incinerator/recycling complex and the Springwood housing development”.
Who or what should be included in a Huddersfield Heritage Trail? Send your suggestions to the Newsdesk or email to editorial@examiner.co.uk
