A vibrant new community facility for Mixenden will soon take a step forward, as Calderdale Council prepares to submit the planning application for the £3 million 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.
Cllr 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 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.
The proposed building includes features which ensure COVID-secure services and support the Council’s priority to tackle the climate emergency. Construction methods will ensure the building performs to a high environmental standard, and features such as on-site surface water attenuation and a community garden will help with flood resilience and biodiversity.
As the Council prepares to submit the planning application for Mixenden Hub, teams continue to engage with the local school and community groups to ensure it will work effectively as a hub for community activity. Tenders are being finalised to identify a contractor to build the facility.
Subject to planning approval and tenders, it is anticipated that the successful construction contractor would start work on site in late 2021. Once appointed, the contractor would provide a detailed programme of works and estimated timescales.
For more information about Mixenden Community Hub and other exciting developments in Calderdale, visit www.calderdalenextchapter.co.uk
The Next Chapter supports the Vision2024 for Calderdale. Visit www.calderdale.gov.uk/vision to find out more.
