Town Hall changes revealed

Information about the proposals emerged after proposals were discussed by Cabinet behind closed doors.

But now the Labour group is calling for a full public consultation before any changes are made.

Coun Tim Swift, leader of the Labour group, said: “Halifax Town Hall is one of the Borough’s heritage icons. We agree that it should remain the Borough’s civic hub – the place where major political meetings take place. But it’s a tragedy that so few residents get to see the inside of this wonderful building.

“Rather than making hasty and short term decisions, we need a vision for the future. We’re challenging the Conservative administration to open up and think about how we can engage local people in a meaningful debate about what the Town Hall means to Halifax and to Calderdale, and how we can make the best use of it to be shared and enjoyed by everyone.”

Conservative council leader Stephen Baines said: “The areas that are currently open to the public will remain available for anyone to walk in and look around this beautiful building and all current meeting rooms will remain open for use by the Council and the many Groups that take advantage of their availability. The report is dealing with the better use of the Town Hall which has an effect on some staff employed and this is the only reason for the item being below the line.

“I suppose this is election fever and as usual any misleading statement by Labour is the norm in these circumstances,” he added.