It will turn the square into a major attraction to "rival those in other cities", according to Kirklees Council.

It will open up the square to stage major outdoor entertainment events with a capacity for a 10,000-strong audience.

Councillor Ken Sims, cabinet member for regeneration, said: "This is a major gateway to the town and we wanted to make sure we got it right.

"We had to balance the desire for the square to be an attractive 'arena' for outdoor events and activities, while at the same retaining its character and appearance.

"That's what the scheme will achieve – developing the square as vibrant and attractive public space to cater for events, and maintaining its heritage and character, together with planned and integrated transport facilities for buses, trains and taxis."

The scheme will remove all through traffic except for buses and taxis which will run on a slightly re-aligned Railway Street.

Private cars will access the station and George Hotel via a station approach from John William Street. The number of car and disabled parking spaces will remain the same.

The existing roundabout between the George Hotel and Britannia Buildings will be replaced by an extended piazza capable of transformation into a temporary stage for events with audiences of up to 10,000. The setts in the upper square will be replaced by traditional stone and granite paving.

The consultations saw a strong public demand for the re-introduction of a water feature. This will be reflected in a waterwall at the entrance to the lower square and fountains in front of the station, with the statue of Harold Wilson repositioned slightly.

The contractors for the scheme are Wrekin Construction. The design was produced by Whitelaw & Turkington landscape architects of Leeds.