John Greenwood

Calderdale Council has approved Admiral’s application to expand its adult gaming centre on Commercial Street, Brighouse, into the former Kwik Tan salon next door. Admiral argued that the larger venue would offer more gaming machines, attract customers and support town-centre footfall. An objector warned that additional gambling facilities could worsen retail decline and contribute to addiction, losses and debt. Council officers concluded that the proposal would retain active commercial frontage and would not undermine the vitality or viability of Brighouse town centre.

Calderdale Council planning officers approved Millers Oils’ proposal to remove three oil storage tanks at its Hillside Oil Works site in Rastrick Common, Brighouse, and replace them with five new tanks. Residents raised concerns about visual impact, safety, pollution, odour, wildlife, construction disruption and effects on property values. Officers concluded that the tanks would be compatible with the existing industrial site, would not cause unacceptable harm to nearby residents, and would support the continued operation of an established local employer in a designated employment area.

Calderdale Council has approved revised plans for a detached four-bedroom self-build house in the garden of a home on Wade House Avenue, Shelf. The original application was rejected two years ago, but the new proposal addressed concerns about design, neighbouring privacy, land stability, ecology, drainage, accessibility, climate change, vehicle manoeuvring and parking. No public objections were received.

Plans submitted by Isaac Wilson to Calderdale Council would redevelop Todmorden’s Acorn Centre on Burnley Road into two ground-floor offices and five homes, including a converted rear outbuilding. The building, formerly the Fox and Hounds pub and later a social centre, café and antiques shop, suffered fire damage last year but has since been repaired. The proposal calls for comprehensive internal refurbishment while largely preserving the building’s street-facing exterior and Todmorden Conservation Area contribution, with a redesigned dormer window at roof level.

Calderdale Council Deputy Leader Paul Hawkaluk acknowledged that planning enforcement in the borough has been “woeful” and almost non-existent, amid public frustration and criticism from Green group leader Martin Hey. Hawkaluk attributed the problems mainly to staffing and resource shortages and said the council was considering using employees from other departments to increase enforcement capacity. Reform UK, which took control of the council in May’s local elections, has identified enforcement as a priority.

Ellete Waste has submitted a revised application to the Environment Agency to change its Sowerby Bridge facility from a waste transfer station into a waste treatment site, including mechanical sorting and the handling of shredder waste. The proposal would increase annual capacity from 5,000 to 35,000 tonnes and expand on-site storage. The consultation closes on September 4. The Benbow Group and local objectors have raised concerns about traffic safety, flooding, noise, air quality, fire risk and impacts on wildlife, while the Environment Agency says it will assess pollution, odour, noise from activity on site and operational safety but not broader planning questions such as the site's location or traffic on surrounding roads.

Calderdale Council has granted listed building consent for Calderdale College to convert vacant office space on the third floor of Dean Clough’s D Mill in Halifax into art teaching facilities. The plans include two studio classrooms, open-plan space for approximately 50 to 60 students, offices for around ten staff and teachers, and additional toilets. Existing modern partitions and finishes will be removed, while new lightweight partitions will preserve the historic structure and expose its original features.

Calderdale Council refused permission in principle for up to nine homes on land north of Orchard House at Moor Bottom Lane in Greetland. Planning officers said the Green Belt site represented inefficient land use and that the limited housing benefit did not outweigh the potential harm. The applicant’s consultants argued that the site was low-performing “grey belt” land, well contained by existing development and needed because Calderdale lacks a five-year housing land supply. Local objections raised concerns about highway safety, infrastructure capacity, drainage and the rural character of the area, although highways officers said a safe site access could be achieved.

Calderdale Council is considering investing in improved mobile CCTV systems as part of its efforts to deter and prosecute fly-tipping. Councillor Ashley Evans called for greater use of surveillance, arguing that catching offenders could reduce the cost of clearing illegally dumped waste. Councillor Paul Hawkaluk said the council already uses CCTV, prosecutes offenders and seizes vehicles, but acknowledged that older systems are inadequate and that better technology would cost more. The council’s stated aim is to increase prosecutions rather than simply remove dumped rubbish.

Calderdale Council planning officers approved the felling of seven trees covered by tree preservation orders at a property on Cragg Road in Mytholmroyd. Arborist Matthew Watson said the beech, silver birch, conifer, spruce and three larch trees had been neglected, were damaging or threatening nearby structures, and posed potential risks to people and property. A public representation supported the application, citing unstable roots, possible retaining-wall damage and the risk of falling branches or trees.

Planning changes approved by Calderdale Council will add a level, fenced hard-play area to the rebuilt Castle Hill School on Halifax Road in Todmorden. Galliford Try Construction Ltd is constructing the new school through the Department for Education’s national School Rebuilding Programme after the existing 1912 building was deemed unfit for purpose. Pupils are temporarily based at Centre Vale Park, with the new school expected to open in December and the park then reinstated. The changes also involve the site boundary, entrance, fencing, retaining walls, handrails, security gates and relocation of three proposed trees, while the broader landscaping plan remains unchanged.

Calderdale will enter West Yorkshire's bus franchising system in the third phase, potentially about 18 months after the initial 2027 rollout. Councillors are concerned about cross-border routes to Burnley and Rochdale, which are expected to operate under permits rather than full franchising and will require coordination with neighboring authorities. Council leader Dan Sutherland said relationships and preparations should prevent disruption, while Sarah Courtney urged improvements to poorly served communities such as Cornholme after previous cuts prompted a 2,200-signature petition.

Calderdale Council leader Dan Sutherland has criticised town-centre regeneration projects carried out under the previous Labour administration as “public sector vandalism” driven by “woke ideology.” The Reform UK-led council has paused or revised parts of the Brighouse scheme, restored some parking spaces and plans to review work in Halifax. Former Labour cabinet member Sarah Courtney sought assurances that investments in Halifax, Brighouse, Todmorden and other communities would not be reduced. Labour argues the projects improve public spaces, safety and accessibility while encouraging visitors to spend more time in town centres.

Brighouse BID is offering qualifying member businesses free professional photoshoots to help promote the town and support local trade during its £19.1 million Town Deal regeneration works. Applications are due by August 12, with sessions planned for the weeks beginning August 24 or August 31. Participation is limited, businesses must be up to date with levy payments, and the BID will receive permission to use the images in marketing campaigns. Calderdale Council is reviewing the second phase of the regeneration scheme amid concerns about effects on footfall and trade, while councillors say revisions will retain 18 parking spaces and avoid delaying the project.

Calderdale Council has agreed to begin consultation on relocating Walsden St Peter’s Primary School from its constrained and aging Rochdale Road site to the Scott Street playing field. The proposed land swap would use the school’s current site and community-use facilities to compensate for the loss of the public playing field, potentially including a 3G football pitch, multi-use games area, parking, toilets and renewed play equipment. The project could receive major funding through the Department for Education’s School Rebuilding Programme, but it remains subject to public consultation, planning approval, appropriation procedures and value-for-money assessments.

Former councillor Christine Prashad has asked Calderdale Council to give objectors more speaking time on major and controversial planning applications, arguing that five minutes is insufficient when multiple residents must share it. The council currently gives objectors, ward councillors and applicants five minutes each, with written objections and officer reports also available to committee members. Cabinet member Keith Ingle defended the existing process as fair and efficient but said the Cabinet could consider changes in future.

Calderdale Council has scrapped planned parking charges at five car parks in Ogden, Elland, Heptonstall and Northowram after a review by the new Reform UK-led administration and concerns from residents and businesses. Proposed charging changes in Brighouse have been paused, while charges will still be introduced or changed in Elland, Skircoat, Sowerby Bridge and Hebden Bridge to help meet budget targets. Council leaders said the decision addressed particularly contentious proposals while aiming to preserve affordable access to town centres and support local businesses.

Calderdale Council is advancing three proposals to manage and develop Halifax's Shay Stadium after Ken Davy withdrew from a proposed purchase and the council faced controversy over divesting the venue. The bidders are the Calderdale Community Stadium Consortium, led by Halifax Panthers directors; Halifax FC Women's Club in partnership with a Dubai-based advisory group; and Halifax businesspeople Stewart and Beverly Charnock-Bates, proposing a not-for-profit community benefit society. The council will assess financial viability, support for FC Halifax Town and Halifax Panthers, community access, spectator experience and legal considerations, with a preferred long-term lease arrangement potentially decided by early October.

Developer Amjad Mahmood has applied to Calderdale Council to convert the vacant offices at 11 and 12 Wards End, including Ward’s End Chambers in Halifax town centre, into nine apartments. The buildings have suffered extensive vandalism and fire-related damage after years of vacancy. The proposed work would retain the historic exteriors and features such as fireplaces, wrought-iron staircases and ornate plasterwork, while refurbishing services, improving insulation and installing energy-efficient systems.

Calderdale Council has refused permission for Daniel Thwaites Plc and Venture Business Space Limited to build a convenience store on part of the Hare and Hounds pub car park on Burnley Road, Todmorden. Supporters said the store would provide local shopping for Cornholme residents and create jobs, while 47 of 48 public comments objected over traffic, congestion, noise, flooding, harm to wildlife, the nearby family-run store and the Grade II listed pub. The Environment Agency and Todmorden Town Council also opposed the scheme, particularly because the site functions as flood plain.

Stafford Hall School in Halifax, a specialist institution for autistic pupils and young people with trauma backgrounds and complex needs, is seeking to become a learning and non-residential school at its Halifax site. Young Foundations Limited has submitted change-of-use and listed-building applications to Calderdale Council. The proposals would convert the upper floors of the Grade II listed Stafford Hall into classrooms, remove later-added en-suite facilities, retain the existing ground-floor educational use and carry out conservation-led repairs, including addressing dry rot. The site would accommodate up to 43 pupils aged 11 to 18, with classes capped at four students and supported by a teacher and teaching assistant.

Calderdale Council has approved B and C Property Management Ltd’s application to divide a vacant 200-square-metre shop at Bolton Brow in Sowerby Bridge into four units. The developer said smaller spaces would be easier and more affordable for businesses to rent after the former hairdressing and beauty premises proved too large for one tenant. A public objection raised concerns about parking, but highways officers said the subdivision would not inherently increase traffic and noted the site’s sustainable location and lack of parking restrictions.

Calderdale Council planners approved an application by Dan Criscione to fell a mature beech tree and prune four others at Grade I-listed Barkisland Hall. The work is intended to address safety concerns, maintain the grounds and provide clearance around the hall and nearby outbuilding. The felled beech will be replaced with another tree of a similar species, while a sycamore with a sparse canopy and possible die-back will be monitored annually. Barkisland Hall was built in 1638 for John Gledhill and listed as a historic building 60 years ago.

Calderdale Council has approved advertisement consent for new signage at the Armytage Arms in Clifton, Brighouse. Sizzling Pub & Grill plans to reface the existing totem sign and install seven fascia signs, including illuminated elements. Timers, warm low-intensity lighting and limits on brightness will be used to reduce light pollution, glare, ecological effects and impacts on nearby properties, transport users and a listed milestone.

Together Housing plans to apply for permission to demolish St James Court and Albion Court, two vacant 1950s tower blocks in Halifax. The housing provider says surveys found that meeting updated building-safety standards introduced after the Grenfell Tower tragedy would require significant investment that would not be the best long-term use of resources. All residents have been relocated, many remaining in central Halifax, while the future of the prominent site is expected to form part of wider regeneration plans and could include new housing.

Paul Moore has applied to Calderdale Council for permission to fell three trees and prune three others at Brian Royd Lane in Greetland. The trees are protected by tree preservation orders. The proposed removals—one sycamore, one cherry and one hawthorn—are described as being in fair condition and would be replaced with three higher-quality trees. The pruning of three sycamores and an English oak is justified on grounds including improved garden light, tree health and safety, and clearance of overhanging branches. The application is listed as 26/20082/TPO on the council’s Planning Portal.

Calderdale Council and Norse Group will begin a new waste and recycling services partnership on August 1, replacing the council’s expiring contract with Suez. Calderdale Norse will manage household collections and five recycling centres, while collection days, recycling arrangements and contact routes remain unchanged. Existing employees will transfer to the new partnership, and new fleet vehicles have been purchased. The arrangement is also intended to create local jobs, support businesses, improve recycling rates and contribute to cleaner, more sustainable neighbourhoods.

Construction of long-delayed lifts at Todmorden Rail Station is expected to begin in November 2026, with passenger access targeted for autumn 2027. Network Rail has taken direct control of the project and is working with Story Contracting after earlier contractor-related delays, while confirming that Department for Transport funding secured in 2019 remains available. The lifts are intended to improve access to both platforms, addressing longstanding difficulties faced by disabled passengers, including forced onward travel and taxi journeys when returning from Manchester.

Nathapon Nunthanee has applied to Calderdale Council to convert the first and second floors above Truth bar and café on Bradford Road, Brighouse, from an Airbnb and former rental flat into a beauty treatment suite. The proposed premises would include nail, massage and make-up services. The applicant’s agents argue that the use would be less onerous than residential accommodation, would not be affected by the café bar below, and would benefit from the town-centre location, nearby bus station and train station. The application is available through the council’s planning portal.

Halifax Borough Market celebrated its 130th anniversary with a summer fete featuring live music, children's activities, tours, historic photographs and Victorian-themed costumes. Calderdale Council highlighted the market's Grade II* listed Victorian heritage and a £4.5 million Future High Streets Fund transformation, including roof, lighting, heating, clock-area and Albany Arcade improvements. Council representatives said the work preserves the market's traditional character while creating new opportunities for events and future traders.

Calderdale councillor Margot Puddepha called on Calderdale Council to support the White Ribbon campaign, provide services addressing male violence against women and girls, and consider flying the White Ribbon flag on November 25. Cabinet member Peter Hunt said the council supports efforts to tackle violence but argued that symbolic gestures have not improved women's safety and advocated tougher criminal justice measures. The article also discusses criticism of releasing violent and sexual offenders early, while noting that the release scheme was subsequently paused for review.

Plans by Kirklees Estates to convert part of Linden Works in Hebden Bridge into 18 apartments are being reconsidered after the required legal agreement remained outstanding and Calderdale Council adopted a new Local Plan in March 2023. The proposal, originally approved in 2021, attracted concerns from the town’s arts community over the loss of studio and business space, as well as objections about limited parking and narrow access. The council has reopened consultation and will return the application to its Planning Committee for a fresh determination.

Halifax's Acapulco nightclub, which has operated for 65 years and is described as Britain's oldest continuous nightclub, is seeking a blue plaque to recognise its contribution to the town's history and culture. Calderdale Council cabinet member Peter Hunt supports the campaign, which aims to raise £650, with additional funds going to Halifax Street Angels.

Calderdale Council is redesigning the Brighouse town centre improvement scheme after businesses raised concerns about disruption, reduced footfall and lost parking. The redesign is expected to retain 18 of the 22 parking spaces originally due to be removed on Bradford Road, including two disabled bays, while adding loading and disabled bays and exploring further short-stay parking. The proposed pedestrianisation of Commercial Street is also under review to determine whether through traffic can be maintained. Phase two of the £19.1 million Town Deal project was paused for assessment, with construction continuing in phases and a marketing campaign planned to encourage visitors during the works.

Calderdale Council has created a cross-party working party on child sexual exploitation to identify risks, support victims, pursue offenders and learn from past failures. Reform UK council leader Dan Sutherland pledged that it would leave “no stone unturned” and resist political interference. Labour leader Adam Wilkinson questioned the appointment of deputy leader Paul Hawkaluk, a former West Yorkshire police officer, arguing that survivors had concerns about institutions linked to past failures holding influential roles. Sutherland defended Hawkaluk’s experience and accused Labour of previously obstructing scrutiny, claims Wilkinson denied.

A ten-year-old Sowerby Bridge resident has secured more than 1,300 signatures on a petition calling for urgent improvements to the unsafe and deteriorating Crow Wood Park skate park. Calderdale councillors Adam Wilkinson and Andrew Tagg praised the campaign, which has cross-party and school support. The youngster is also pursuing crowdfunding and other funding options after receiving permission in principle for a renovation, while the council says it currently lacks the necessary funds.

Brighouse businesses say the first phase of a £19.1 million town-centre regeneration project has sharply reduced footfall and revenue, with construction disruption, difficult access and higher parking charges affecting trade. Traders broadly support the long-term improvements but are asking Calderdale Council for immediate help, including free or cheaper parking, better communication and reconsideration of plans to remove around 30 on-street parking spaces. The council’s new Reform UK administration has paused the second phase for review, citing concerns about parking and access, with revised plans expected soon. Despite the short-term difficulties, local businesses remain optimistic that the completed scheme will make Brighouse more attractive and prosperous.

Calderdale Council approved a £14.38 million highways maintenance budget for 2026–27, allocating nearly £10 million to roads and footpaths. Cabinet member Darren Commons emphasized prioritizing practical, preventative improvements. A detailed list of footpaths and road sections across Rastrick, Brighouse, Hipperholme, Halifax, Todmorden and other areas was identified for repair work in the coming year.

Plans for improvements to the All Saints Church Sunday School building in Elland include a new community garden, additional parking, solar panels and various structural upgrades. The proposal aims to strengthen the church’s ability to serve the community while improving energy efficiency. The Grade II* listed church and its surrounding spaces, including the Garden of Repose, will remain preserved. The planning application is available through Calderdale Council’s portal.

Calderdale Council’s new Reform UK administration is reviewing the future of ward forums due to concerns over low attendance and inconsistent effectiveness. Christine Prashad questioned whether the forums might be discontinued and stressed the need for accessible alternatives. Cabinet member Peter Hunt said officers are assessing options, with recommendations expected later in the year, while council leader Dan Sutherland noted that improved participation from partners such as police would benefit public engagement.

Three parks in Calderdale—Centre Vale Park, Manor Heath Park and Jungle Experience, and the Shibden Estate—have retained Green Flag Awards, recognising high-quality maintenance, safety, and community involvement. Calderdale Council highlighted staff and volunteer contributions ahead of Love Parks Week, encouraging residents to support local parks and help maintain clean, welcoming public spaces.

Senior councillors in Calderdale will allow campaigners concerned about the Local Plan, which outlines future housing allocations, to participate in shaping its upcoming review. The Reform UK–led council plans to scale back proposed development on former green belt sites and shift focus toward housing suited to an ageing population. A cross‑party Local Plan Working Party will be formed to gather evidence, incorporate community input, and reconsider the borough’s long‑term housing strategy, including contentious garden community proposals near Brighouse.

Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS Foundation Trust has submitted a full planning application to widen the Lower Dudwell Lane entrance at Calderdale Royal Hospital to accommodate larger vehicle movements related to ongoing redevelopment. The site is undergoing major expansion, including a new A&E department, clinical building and multi‑storey car park, and the entrance changes require removal of a small landscaped area. The application, linked to design revisions for the new clinical building, is now available for review on the council’s planning portal.

Halifax’s Victoria Theatre marks its 125th anniversary with exhibitions, open days and continued modernisation that preserves its historic character. Calderdale Council emphasises the venue’s cultural importance, strong public appeal and role in hosting major shows, local talent and annual pantomimes. Community groups including the Halifax Choral Society and Halifax Amateur Operatic Society remain central to its identity while the Friends of Victoria Theatre curate displays celebrating its past and recent history.

Free public screenings of the aerial and time‑lapse documentary Epic Yorkshire will take place at The Piece Hall in Halifax on August 2 as part of Yorkshire Day celebrations. The Piece Hall Trust, Halifax BID and Visit Calderdale are partnering to host the event, highlighting the county’s landscapes, heritage and identity. Director Christian Wilkinson describes the film as a six‑year project intended to showcase Yorkshire globally. Local leaders encourage visitors to explore Halifax’s shops, cafés and attractions, with additional family craft activities offered onsite.

Calderdale’s new Reform UK-led administration has put forward a motion to withdraw the council from the Local Authority of Sanctuary scheme, arguing that participation creates additional financial and operational pressures beyond statutory duties. The proposal emphasises prioritising core services based on local need and calls for ending non-statutory migration-related commitments. The motion will be debated at the next full council meeting, alongside separate motions from Labour on Yorkshire Water’s infrastructure investment and from the Green Party challenging Equalities and Human Rights Commission guidance.

Calderdale Council seeks planning permission to replace the gas heating system at Sowerby Bridge Swimming Pool with air‑source heat pumps to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions. The proposal includes installing 16 evaporator units on a new gantry and housing some equipment in a weather‑resistant container, with assurances that visual and noise impacts will be minimal. The council frames the upgrade as part of broader efforts to improve energy efficiency across local leisure facilities.

Senior Calderdale councillors are set to receive revised plans for the paused second phase of Brighouse’s £19.1 million Town Deal regeneration scheme. The new Reform UK-led administration halted the next stage for review, prompting questions about potential costs, delays and risks. Officials said delays inherited in phase one allow time to reassess without financial penalties. Political debate emerged over responsibility for earlier project delays, while the second phase remains scheduled to begin later in the summer, with three phases planned through 2027.

Wellholme Park in Brighouse will reopen in mid-July following extensive improvements completed through the Brighouse Flood Alleviation Scheme. A community day hosted by the Environment Agency is planned for July 29 to showcase new features, flood‑resilience measures, and enhancements to accessibility and natural spaces. The project aims to strengthen protection for homes and infrastructure while improving the park’s usability and environmental value.

Calderdale Council’s new Reform UK‑led administration will reopen all five waste and recycling centres seven days a week by Christmas at no additional cost to taxpayers. The move reverses earlier part‑week closures introduced to save money. The change aligns with the transition of waste services to Calderdale Norse Ltd, a joint venture replacing Suez as contractor on August 1. Around 168 staff will transfer to the new company, with updated vehicles and uniforms introduced, and the council retaining a 20% stake while exploring future commercial opportunities.

Square Chapel Arts Centre in Halifax remains closed after its operating company, Square Chapel CIC, was issued a winding‑up order by HMRC, placing the building with the Official Receiver. Arts Council England, which holds a legal charge on the property from a previous capital award, has appointed its own Receiver to protect the site and pursue its return to community cultural use. Calderdale Council, local campaigners, and MP Kate Dearden continue to lobby for the centre’s reopening, with the Save Square Chapel Campaign saying the situation is now moving in a positive direction.

Labour councillors call for clarity after the new Reform UK–led Calderdale Council suspended the second phase of Brighouse’s £19.1 million regeneration scheme, citing concerns from local businesses about disruption. Labour argues the pause undermines confidence, threatens the project’s long‑term aims, and lacks transparency, urging the administration to justify the decision and outline its implications for funding and future progress.

Ward councillors in Brighouse clarified that pausing the next phase of town centre improvement works does not signal cancellation, with Phase 1 continuing beyond its original schedule. The delay gives time to assess concerns about accessibility, parking loss and the impact on businesses before advancing further phases. Councillors have requested alternative design options to address these issues while maintaining planned improvements. They emphasized their commitment to supporting businesses, ensuring the town’s long‑term viability and securing the best outcome as the project undergoes review.

Younger Homes (Northern) Ltd has applied for planning permission to convert part of Lloyds Banking Group’s vacant Copley data centre in Halifax into industrial and workshop space for manufacturing prefabricated homes. The company, currently based in Brighouse, says it needs more room to expand and argues that the proposed use would create local employment and investment with minimal noise and no hazardous processes. Supporting documents state the site has been unsuccessfully marketed for office use for more than two years. Calderdale Council is considering the application.

Marshalls Mono seeks approval from Calderdale Council to extend Pasture House Quarry in Southowram by 2.3 hectares to maintain current sandstone extraction levels of up to 70,000 tonnes per year. Supporting documents state that mining methods, transport operations, and daily HGV movements would remain unchanged, and no blasting would be required. The company plans to restore the site to wildflower meadow and tree‑planted areas after backfilling. Highway assessments indicate no significant transport impact, and the application is available for public review on the council’s planning portal.

Approval was granted for Persimmon Homes to build a 98‑home estate near Soaper Lane in Shelf after Calderdale Council’s Planning Committee agreed to permit the proposal subject to final legal conditions. The development includes 30 affordable homes, funding for local footpath improvements, and a reserve of £173,000 to address potential safety issues on Burned Road. Councillors and residents raised concerns about congestion, road safety, and privacy issues, while planning officers said housing mix and school capacity were sufficient. The developer highlighted benefits including open space, construction jobs and additional council tax revenue, and the plan passed unanimously.

Calderdale planning councillors approved McDonald’s plan to build a drive‑thru restaurant in Shelf despite objections from public health officials, residents and Green Party councillors citing proximity to schools, concerns about child health and traffic impacts. Supporters argued the brownfield development would create jobs, improve local highways and be run by a local franchisee. Councillors voted 5–2 to permit the scheme subject to legal agreements and amended conditions, prompting criticism from opponents who said national policy should have blocked fast‑food outlets near places where children gather.