People in Cleckheaton are to have their say on plans to improve the town centre.

Residents, businesses and local groups can find out more about the proposals at two exhibitions next month.

The plans focus on the town centre shopping area and buildings which need a facelift. The first phase of the work is due to start next summer and is estimated to cost £300,000.

It is part of a regeneration programme to enhance the vitality of some town centres in Kirklees with Government cash.

Cleckheaton ward councillor and Kirklees Council cabinet member Andrew Pinnock said: "The proposed scheme will completely transform the heart of the town centre for the benefit of local people and visitors.

"This is further step in the improvement of the town centre which builds on recent improvements including; the new bus station, rebuilding the market arcade, the new health centre now nearing completion and the installation of CCTV."

The proposals include revamping the market place by either creating a new town square with one way road for service access, or by a minor change to the existing road layout.

As well as holding the outdoor market this area would be a place for outdoor events. It would also be opposite an entrance to the new Asda store which is due to be built off Horncastle Street next year.

A small town square would be created at the Cheapside entrance to the Albion Street precinct with an improved pedestrian entrance to Central Arcade off Market Street. New paving and lighting will link one section to the next.

Other ideas include improving the look of the indoor market with the possibility of bringing back murals on the front of the building and offering property improvement grants to improve shop fronts.

The first exhibition will be held on Saturday, December 3, at Albion Street precinct from 10am to 1pm. The second one will open on Tuesday, December 6, at Market Arcade from 10am to 1pm and will continue until Wednesday, December 14.

To find out more about the proposals log onto www.kirklees.gov.uk/cleckheatonconsultation or contact Roger Holmes on (01484) 221626.