Council backs centre despite imminent spending cuts

Members of Calderdale's cabinet discussed options for the proposed Mixenden centre and chose to move forward with option one; a single-storey building with space for a new retail unit-post office, library and public service access point.

The proposed cost for the "community hub" about three miles from Halifax is 2.4m.

The council, which looks set to implement millions of pounds worth of cuts following Government grant reductions, has set money aside to buy the land.

And Pennine Housing 2000, Calderdale's largest locally-based registered social landlord, has been chosen to develop the project and will meet most of the cost.

Architects' designs are now ready to be submitted for planning approval.

Discussions are also under way with local agents about the possibility of a supermarket chain occupying the proposed retail unit.

This would radically change the centre, and be a key step in the renewal and regeneration of the area.

The council will now be submitting a planning application for the scheme and opening discussions with organisations to provide the remaining funding, looking for investment from the private sector and/or partner agencies.

Calderdale Council's cabinet member for economy and enterprise, Coun Barry Collins, says Mixenden is in desperate need of a new centre.

"Following extensive consultation with local people we realise that there is a high degree of support for the new centre.

"In the current financial climate, we feel this is an aspirational but realistic project. It would offer improved access to services, a greater quality of local shopping and give people in Mixenden a new, attractive building at the heart of the community."