A GROUP promoting Huddersfield town centre is set for a change of status.

After five years of growth, Huddersfield Town Centre Association has become a company limited by guarantee.

The proposal to set up the new company - the Huddersfield Town Centre Partnership Ltd - was approved by HTCA members at the group's annual meeting at the George Hotel.

HTCA chairman John Eastwood said a limited company would provide "a stronger image of greater permanence and greater confidence".

It would help to "entrench the commitment of members and supporters" and ensure members' liability was limited.

Mr Eastwood said: "Company status should attract many new businesses which will recognise that our combined voice is much stronger in influencing key decisions and making things happen."

The new company was formed on April 1.

HTCA has played a major role in promoting the town.

Members include retailers, other businesses based in the town centre and representatives of organisations such as Huddersfield Civic Society.

HTCA lobbies Kirklees Council on issues, including car parking and litter problems.

It also plays a key part in staging events such as the Food and Drink Festival, Huddersfield in Bloom, street markets, Christmas late night opening and summer entertainments.