Marsden Blueprint approved
Kirklees has greenlit the regeneration programme, which will use an initial £140,000 of funding to develop concept designs for Peel Street before focusing on Goodsyard, Lakeside, and upgrades to Marsden Station.
The blueprint aims to strengthen communities, improve public spaces, protect heritage, boost the local economy, provide affordable housing, and promote sustainability.
Emerging proposals for the New Mills redevelopment by the Crowther family will act as a catalyst for wider improvements, with the blueprint integrating into the mill site development so that it becomes a new living component of the village.
The initial funding of up to £140,000 is supported by UK Shared Prosperity Fund and Local Centres contributions.
The Masterplan sets out a strategic framework and the proposals, as with others across the district, have been shaped by extensive community input and feedback.
Councillor Graham Turner, cabinet member for finance and regeneration, said: “The Marsden Blueprint is about bringing energy back to the places that matter most.
“Investing in small towns isn’t just about new buildings or highway improvements; it’s about creating opportunities for residents and businesses, sparking pride, and helping communities thrive together.
“As with all our blueprints, infrastructure, preserving heritage and open spaces are key and, by taking a more collaborative approach, this plan will build a future for Marsden we can all be excited about.’’
Tom Lonsdale, chair of the Marsden Blueprint Community Partnership said: “It has been a pleasure and an honour for me to chair the Partnership overseeing and guiding this study.
“Its recommendations feel like a reward for years of community activism that began with rescuing and reviving Marsden Mechanics and then blossomed into ambitious regeneration plans for what we think of as home but also believe is a jewel in the Kirklees crown.
“The new station and reinvention of the Goodsyard and village centre will underline Marsden’s status as an historic example of a Pennine textile and communications centre and a future gateway to the whole South Pennines landscape.
“The collaboration between the council, community, and consultants Allies and Morrison has been exemplary throughout, recognising that potential and signposting the roadmap for delivery.”
