Trader concern at Batley and Dewsbury town centre manager leaves post

Kirklees Council employed Andrew Sloman to support traders and run special events such as Christmas lights switch-ons.

His role was also intended to boost the economic fortunes of the two towns.

Kirklees Council this week refused to say whether the role had been made redundant or if Mr Sloman would be replaced.

Batley Business Association chairman Andrew Marsden said he was sad to see Mr Sloman leave.

“From the town’s point of view, this is potentially a very significant loss,” he said.

“I hope that we will soon hear about Andrew’s replacement, and we will continue to receive the assistance from the council that we enjoyed through town’s management.

“The fear is that we are going to lose that assistance permanently. It is not so long ago that Andrew’s colleague, Viv Edmonds, who also provided us with a lot of support and assistance moved on from her post and that was never filled.

“We can only hope that isn’t going to be the case here.”

Dewsbury Chamber of Trade president Trish Makepeace echoed Mr Marsden’s concerns.

She said: “Andrew will be missed. He did an awful lot in both towns, but I have been reassured by the council that he will be replaced.”

A council spokeswoman said: “The Investment and Regeneration Service will allocate resources to ensure the council continues to work with businesses, and deliver events in Dewsbury and Batley town centres.

“A staff presence working across Dewsbury and Batley will be maintained.”