If some of the larger planned schemes come to fruition, such as Broad Street and the Shay, we could enter a period of rapid change which will transform the town into a vibrant centre which people will want to visit and spend their leisure time.

Much of that success will depend on the quality of the work now being undertaken bymaster planners who are concentrating on the Piece Hall and the surrounding area.

It will be interesting to see if the next few years leads to any new landmark buildings in the town centre.

But it is also important that we recapture the glory of our fine buildings which have fallen derelict and that we clean up the town's grot-spots. That is why it is good to see progress on a group of Hopwood Lane buildings which have been an eyesore for many years.

A £15 million development will see the quality restoration of listed buildings and modern use of a wedge of land which had become an embarrassment to the town.

There was added impetus to this project, which should include offices, houses, apartments, a restaurant, cafe and parking. The futuristic work being done at the nearby Elsie Whiteley Innovation Centre is attracting visitors from around the world – and their first impressions of Halifax can hardly have been the best.

Let's hope the firm now appointed to carry out the work at this important gateway not only sorts out that problem but also creates an area which will add inspiration to efforts to regenerate the town centre.