Masterplan to revitalise business and the Sowerby Bridge community

A master plan is being developed to put the aspirations of businesses and the community first in a bid to boost the town of Sowerby Bridge.
Could Sowerby Bridge have more green spaces and become more friendly for pedestrians?Could Sowerby Bridge have more green spaces and become more friendly for pedestrians?
Could Sowerby Bridge have more green spaces and become more friendly for pedestrians?

These drawings show how the town could be developed creating more green space and to make it a more inviting place for visitors.

The plan is being developed by Calderdale Council and the community-led Town Development Board.

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Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Strategy, Councillor Barry Collins, said the proposals for Sowerby Bridge will help the Council achieve its priorities of growing the economy, reducing inequalities and building a sustainable future.

It aligns with the wider transformation of Calderdale and investment in transport, public spaces and businesses, and supports the Vision2024 to be a thriving borough where people want to live, work, visit and invest.

“Sowerby Bridge has so much to offer, with great independent businesses and a thriving night-time economy,” said Coun Collins.

“This masterplan would look to build on the town’s many positives, while addressing some of the issues it faces such as problems with traffic congestion and a lack of green space.”

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The purpose of the masterplan is to provide a framework to guide development and restoration work.

The masterplan sets out a ‘long term’ vision, provisionally dated to 2040. It is hoped that some of these interventions would happen much earlier than that - but it is accepted that the more ambitious ideas require significant funding and/or have additional obstacles to overcome.

It is hoped that good placemaking can boost tourism, contribute to a thriving community and sustainable economy, and help to deliver the public health agenda.

The Council has said it wants the town centre to welcome tourists, delight locals, encourage businesses, and promote prevention of ill health rather than cure - through clean air, encouragement of exercise, and an atmosphere that promotes mental wellbeing.

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A consultation has been held on the initial plans and drawings.

Following the engagement process, the landscape architects are reviewing the feedback and record any design changes to inform the next stage of design works.

The final outcomes of the engagement will include a summary of all contributions collected as well as recommendations for future action.