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A new heart for Mytholmroyd Wednesday, 1 July 2009 Local residents and businesses are invited to look around the newly created St Michael’s Square and Enterprise Hub in Mytholmroyd, on Wednesday July 8, between 2pm and 6pm. The project is part of the Upper Calder Valley Renaissance (UCVR). St Michael’s Church began the transformation of the area in 2007, with the creation of a new community hub, ‘The Erringden Room’, which is proving to be both popular and well used. The success of this project encouraged Yorkshire Forward to contribute funding towards a new enterprise hub and a town square to complete the UCVR vision. The work has been carried out as a partnership and funded between the church, Calderdale Council and Yorkshire Forward. The square is a modern interpretation of a traditional town square, with high quality natural stone paving, and a new riverside walkway leading from the square. There will also be new planting beds including one for use by the community. The square will still have short stay parking but can be closed to cars and the whole space used for community events, festivals or farmers’ markets. Future events are being planned and St Michael’s is working on a calendar of events. Eric Alston, chair of Royd Regeneration, who is also the project manager for the scheme, said; “The completion of the town square will make Mytholmroyd a more pleasant place to live, work and play.” The enterprise hub is an extension to the rear of the church hall and will provide office space for small and start-up businesses. James Allison, chair of Upper Calder Valley Renaissance, said, “In these challenging economic times we feel that anything we can do to help local businesses, no matter how small, is a step in the right direction.” The ‘Hour Car’ service – a community based car share scheme – is also based near the hub. Additionally, artists have submitted designs for a new piece of artwork to form a focal point for the new square. The designs are currently on display in Mytholmroyd for public comment, and will be on view at the open day. The final choice of the artist will be made at the end of July. Cllr Amanda Byrne, Portfolio holder for Regeneration and Development, said “This is a really innovative project, which strengthens Mytholmroyd’s economy and environment. “The modern design of the new square gives the area a unique identity and sense of place - Mytholmroyd now has a real ‘heart’. “The enterprise hub is great addition for any town, especially in the current economic climate.” See also
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