HUDDERSFIELD CIVIC SOCIETY – WHAT WE DO

Huddersfield Civic Society was set up in 1964 to care for the town, both its past and its future.

We protect the town’s heritage and do all we can to preserve its important buildings, amenities and places but also play a key role helping to shape the way Huddersfield is developed in the future.

We believe in high standards of architecture and town planning and several HCS members have the experience and expertise to examine planning applications in detail. We object and provide constructive comments if we feel any fall short of the standards we believe they should meet but also give praise and support too.

Huddersfield is a great place to live and work which we always promote and liaise closely with like-minded organisations to share ideas and create a feeling of civic pride in the town, its communities, events and people.

Key areas we concentrate on include:

  • Protecting Conservation Areas, listed buildings and those of historical importance, including some which have become derelict
  • Consulting with Kirklees Council and other organisations on major schemes shaping Huddersfield’s future such as the ambitious Cultural Heart plans, the 10-year Huddersfield Blueprint to enhance the town centre and the massive trans-Pennine rail upgrade. We keep a close eye on how these schemes are developing or changing and comment publicly on them.
  • Producing publications which champion Huddersfield’s architecture, history and culture.
  • Examining all planning applications and commenting on any which we feel need amendments, are detrimental to the town or require our support.
  • Working with Discover Huddersfield to develop and promote trails, guided walks and heritage open days so people can explore the town’s history and heritage for themselves.
  • Organising and judging the annual Huddersfield Civic Society Design Awards which celebrate the best architecture and design now happening in the town.
  • Arranging talks, walks and workshops celebrating Huddersfield’s past or focusing on important issues it faces in the future.