Huddersfield’s £1bn future unveiled at inaugural mini-conference

Business-led organisation Huddersfield Unlimited has outlined its vision for the town’s future at its inaugural ‘Our Huddersfield, Our Future’ mini-conference, held on October 20.

The public event at the John Smith’s Stadium brought together speakers from Kirklees Council, TransPennine Express and the University of Huddersfield to discuss the future of Huddersfield. The event was also attended by the Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin, who delivered the closing speech.

The conference enabled Huddersfield Unlimited’s key stakeholders to share collective ambitions for the town and focused on exploring what can be achieved over the next five to 10 years and beyond.

The conference highlighted how Huddersfield can make the most of its logistical and socioeconomic strengths, such as being at the centre of the North’s East-West transport routes, especially with the surge of public sector investment. The event included a Q&A and a copy of Huddersfield Unlimited’s Vision document for the public to take away.

Guest speaker Councillor Graham Turner and Cabinet member for economic growth and regeneration at Kirklees Council delivered a closing speech. He said about the event: “’I am delighted to stand here today amongst fellow friends of, and believers in Huddersfield.

“We all know these are uncertain times for the country as a whole, but it is in uncertain times when we have to show courage, which is why we remain committed to our ambitious plans to deliver transformational projects in Huddersfield, to drive opportunity and prosperity for all.”

Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin, in her closing statement added: “Yesterday’s conference was a great opportunity to hear more about the fantastic vision for Huddersfield. Huddersfield is rich with history and brimming with talent and opportunity.

The event also saw a number of business leaders discussing topics such as Kirklees Council’s Cultural Heart and Station 2 Stadium Enterprise Corridor projects, the Trans Pennine Rail Upgrade, as well as The University of Huddersfield’s multi-million pound investment in a “world-class” National Health Innovation Campus.

The Chair of Huddersfield Unlimited, Sir John Harman said: “Huddersfield Unlimited was set up with one unifying aim; a determination that Huddersfield should have a vibrant, successful future.

“The time is now, with committed investment in the Civic Quarter, the University and rail infrastructure worth over £1bn over the next few years; a powerful lever to bring in business investment. With determined promotion and advocacy, together we can make Huddersfield THE place to live and work in the M26 corridor.”

By Matthew Neville – Correspondent, Bdaily

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