Solution for Dewsbury by BD2030Vision

Plan for Both Towns

A. Introduce Free Regular Bus Service: Enhance connectivity between the two towns by implementing a free regular bus service along Bradford Road. This initiative will provide residents with convenient and accessible transportation options, fostering greater mobility and connectivity within the region.

B. Rates Exemption for New Businesses: Support the growth of local entrepreneurship by offering a rate exemption for the first 18 months to completely new businesses. This incentive will encourage the establishment of new ventures, stimulating economic activity and diversity within the town centres.

C. Foster Local Entrepreneurship: Promote the "Shop Local, Keep Local" concept to encourage residents to support local businesses and entrepreneurs. By highlighting the value of patronising local establishments, residents can contribute to the vitality and sustainability of the local economy.

D. Offer Free Parking: Enhance accessibility and convenience for shoppers by providing free parking for up to three hours. This initiative will remove barriers to accessing town centre amenities and encourage more people to visit and support local businesses.

E. Streamlined Planning Applications: Simplify and expedite the planning application process for converting top floors of commercial buildings into residential units. By facilitating quick and easy conversions, the town centres can address housing needs while revitalizing underutilised spaces.

1. Block Cloth Hall Street: Creation of unique covered outdoor seating areas to serve as landmarks and enhance the street's aesthetic appeal.

2. Block Whitehall Way: Implement initiatives to enhance Whitehall Way, fostering a welcoming environment for pedestrians and promoting vibrant street life.

3. Redevelopment of Small Arcade Buildings: Convert the buildings currently housing Imsons and QPS into a dynamic food court, attracting visitors and adding to the culinary diversity of the town centre.

4. Market Stall Revamp: Undertake a complete overhaul of the market stalls, raising roof heights to create spacious and elegant spaces that accommodate a variety of vendors and attract shoppers. Integrate with Cloth Hall Street and Whitehall Way.

5. Revamp of Arcade: Refurbish the arcade to accommodate independent shops, contributing to the vibrancy and character of the town centre’s retail landscape.

6. Foundry Street Enhancement: Create a shaded area and seating space along Foundry Street, providing residents and visitors with a comfortable and inviting outdoor space to relax and socialise.

7. Crackenedge Lane Redevelopment: Utilize Compulsory Purchase Orders (CPOs) to acquire units along Crackenedge Lane Barclays Bank up-to A Dog House, allowing for the creation of a multi-purpose structure that serves the needs of the community.

8. Market Place Transformation: Introduce unique outdoor seating and play areas for children in the Market Place, connecting different areas of the town centre and fostering a sense of community right middle of the Town.

9. Revival of Old Cinema: Restore and reopen the old cinema as a modern entertainment venue, offering a diverse range of films and cultural events to residents and visitors alike.

10. Promotion of Independent Shops: Encourage the continued presence of independent shops along Westgate, Church Street, Long Causeway, Princess of Wales precinct, and other key areas of the town centre, preserving the area's unique character and charm.

11. Revamp of Empire Building: Consider refurbishing or rebuilding the Empire building to accommodate modern office spaces, in conjunction with the redevelopment of adjacent properties on Crackenedge Lane, creating a cohesive and attractive large development site.

12. Leisure Area Development: Transform the area currently occupied by Kirklees Adult Service into a leisure area featuring amenities such as a ten-pin bowling alley, catering to the recreational needs of residents.

13. Utilize spaces around Union Street, Bond Street, Prince Street, Daisy Hill, and other areas to accommodate a variety of cafes and local businesses, enriching the town centre’s dining and retail offerings.

14. Open Air Events: Organise regular open-air events, including pop-up shops and cafes, to activate public spaces and attract visitors to the town centre.

15. Revitalisation of River Calder Areas: Enhance the River Calder areas with walking pathways, cycle lanes, and recreational facilities accessible from multiple points, promoting outdoor recreation and leisure activities.

16. Incorporation of Street Art: Introduce colourful frontages and street art throughout the town centre, adding vibrancy and character to the urban landscape.