Have your say on design of new Dewsbury Town Park

An artist's impression of the new Dewsbury Town Park, which will be built on Longcauseway

Part of the Dewsbury Blueprint, the new park would provide an opportunity for communities to come together to socialise and enjoy the outdoors.

Plans are at an early stage and Kirklees Council is seeking views from the public on the designs for the park, which will be built on Longcauseway.

Longcauseway was identified as the prime location for the park in 2009 and, due to its location on the site of an old railway, the designs for the park have been inspired by the themes of circulation, connection and movement.

The new Dewsbury Town Park aims to create a 'green haven' in the town centre

There are two potential sizes for the new park: one that takes in only Longcauseway and the Memorial Gardens; and another larger, more impactful scheme that also includes the site of the existing Customer Service Centre.

Designs for the park aim to maximise space. Two sets of designs have been created for both sized parks for the area between Dewsbury Town Hall, Longcauseway and the Princess of Wales Shopping Centre.

David Shepherd, strategic director for growth and regeneration at Kirklees Council, said: “This consultation for Dewsbury Town Park is an exciting step forward in our ambitious plans to bring more activity into the town centre, make it more attractive and improve accessibility, as set out in the Dewsbury Blueprint.

"Outside space is vital to the improved well-being of our residents, commuters and visitors. A green and inviting haven in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the town centre will provide a vital link to nature.

"The ultimate goal for the new park is to improve the town centre experience for residents and visitors alike. It is for that reason that I would encourage as many people as possible to complete the survey and share their thoughts on the designs.”

The public consultation runs until June 12. Members of the public can view the different designs, read about the plans and complete the survey on the council’s website - www.kirklees.gov.uk/dewsburytownpark.

Members of the public can also discuss the plans with an officer, in person. Council staff will be based in a shop unit, just next to the gates of Dewsbury Market, from 10am to 4pm on market days (Wednesday and Saturday).