THE fight against huge lorries using Holmfirth as a short cut is being taken up – by school pupils.
Oliver Taylor and his classmates Joe Wood and Georgia Brockway are concerned about the number of HGVs using the town.
The year 11 pupils say many articulated trucks use the small, winding lanes of Holmfirth as a short cut to the M1.
But they feel the roads are unsuitable for the HGVs and that it’s causing more problems for residents.
Now the trio have organised a public meeting, to take place tomorrow, where the issue will be discussed.
And they want the people of Holmfirth to turn out and discuss the issue close to their hearts.
Oliver, 15, said: “We noticed that it was a growing problem – it seems to be getting worse and worse.
“A few years ago one of them took a wrong turn and crashed into the Kirkwood Hospice charity shop.
“We’d like to see restrictions put on them. It could be a time limit of when they can drive through here or better still a weight limit so we’re not getting the massive lorries on roads they’re not really suitable for.”
As part of their studies the pupils have carried out surveys and will report their findings to the meeting.
Their interest in the issue came up during their citizenship classes – designed to get young people involved in their community and issues affecting everyone.
Oliver added: “As part of our citizenship course we wanted to raise an issue which affects Holmfirth and the people living and working here.
“This was something we all felt strongly about.
“We’ve carried out surveys into it but we also want to know what people think.”
The pupils are inviting the public to join them at the meeting which starts at 6.30pm at Holmfirth High School in the library, off Heys Road.
In attendance will be local councillors, parish councillors, Highways officials from Kirklees Council, Police Community Support Officers and representatives of the Keep Holmfirth Special group.
