Multi-million pound plans prepared for community facility

A new community facility for Mixenden, Halifax, will soon take a step forward, as Calderdale Council prepares to submit the planning application for the £3m hub.

The proposed hub is set to transform the heart of Mixenden, providing a GP surgery, pharmacy, library and community garden all on one site.

Councillor Jane Scullion, Calderdale Council’s cabinet member for regeneration and strategy, said: “As part of our exciting Next Chapter regeneration work across Calderdale, our proposals for Mixenden Community Hub will breathe new life into the area and improve access to services and opportunities.

“The pandemic sadly delayed work on the project, but we’re now pleased to be able to progress to the planning stage.

“We’re ambitious about the future of the borough and are investing in local towns to help with the inclusive economic recovery from COVID-19; to give people equal access to health services and learning; and to help people reach their potential as part of the Vision2024 for Calderdale.”

Cllr Jenny Lynn, the council’s cabinet member for public services and communities, added: “Local people will be able to use the state-of-the-art facility and outdoor space to look after their health, learn, relax and socialise. It will be a focal point for the whole community.

“The new library will replace the currently closed one which is in poor condition and has suffered from an arson attack.

“It will provide a range of easy-to-access facilities, advice and IT equipment in a modern, welcoming environment. This investment recognises the important role that libraries play in wellbeing, skills and inclusion.”

A temporary library is currently located in part of Mixenden Activity Centre.

Tenders are being finalised to identify a contractor to build the new facility.

Subject to planning approval and tenders, it is anticipated the successful construction contractor would start work on site in late 2021. Once appointed, the contractor will provide a detailed programme of works and estimated timescales.