The Northern way…

30 August 2011

Bit of a tour around West Yorkshire. Real mix of stations. Wakefield Westgate – grand, but in desperate need of some TLC. Looks like someone has finally come to the rescue. Met the knowledgeable and energetic executive director of Groundwork Wakefield, Ken Taylor. Ken is piecing together the £3 million odd that is needed to turn this fine building into a source of community pride. I really hope he does it. Halifax shows what it could look like – cleaned stone gleaming in the sun, with a fantastic kids playground just next door. Lots of other great places and people. Sowerby Bridge and the Jubilee Refreshment Rooms. Spick and span, welcoming and brimming with ideas and energy – a great place for a quick pint. What is impressive is the energy and commitment of local people to make these things happen – the system should support them to do it!