Work on the major £4m facelift to transform Huddersfield's historic St George's Square has started.

The revamp will turn the square into a major attraction and central feature to rival those in major cities. It will open up the square to stage major outdoor entertainment events with a capacity for a 10,000-strong audience.

However, its design will also preserve and highlight the square's history and heritage, and have important elements that will make access easier for bus and train passengers.

Councillor Ken Sims, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, said: "Options for the square went through a major consultation process, and were developed and progressed as a result of input for a wide range of groups and individuals. This is a major gateway to the town and we wanted to make sure we got it right.

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"We had to balance the desire for the square to be an attractive 'arena' for outdoor events and activities, while at the same retaining its character and appearance.

"That's what the scheme will achieve - developing the square as vibrant and attractive public space to cater for events, and maintaining its heritage and character, together with planned and integrated transport facilities for buses, trains and taxis."

The scheme will remove all through traffic except for buses and taxis which will run on a slightly re-aligned Railway Street. Private cars will access the station and George Hotel via a dedicated station approach from John William Street. The number of car and disabled parking spaces will remain the same.

The existing roundabout between the George Hotel and Britannia Buildings will be replaced by an extended piazza capable of transformation into a temporary stage for events with audiences of up to 10,000. The setts in the upper square will be replaced by traditional stone and granite paving.

(CD/JM)