DENHOLME Town Council is spearheading attempts to save the village’s Mechanics Institute from closure.

Councillors have handed a petition signed by more than 950 people to Bradford councillor Simon Cooke.

In a joint statement, town councillors Jacqui MacFarlane and Anne Sherriff described the building as an invaluable local facility that was highly valued by local residents.

They said: “As a resource belonging to the entire community, Denholme Mechanics Institute is the heart of the village and belongs to the local people. Closure would mean that the future of user groups would also be at risk as there are no other suitable alternative facilities. The building underpins the sense of community in Denholme, and is a core part of the heritage of Denholme itself.”

The town council’s campaign follows a recent announcement by cash-strapped Bradford Council that halls in villages like Denholme, Harden, Oakworth and Silsden would close unless local community groups came forward to take over ownership.

The town council said a recent consultation meeting over City Hall’s plans indicated the strength of local feeling.

The Mechanics Institute was built in 1880, with a financial contribution by local mill owners, to provide educational and recreational activities.

The ground floor was recently adapted for disabled users as part of a £150,000 refurbishment, with local people raising almost £90,000 of the cost. The institute now houses Denholme Library, which is run by volunteers, as well as a police contact point, mental health services in the Brontë Cafe, and a town council room.

The building is regularly used by Denholme Crafters, the Over 50s and St Paul’s Wives, as well as for social events, dancing, entertainment and parties.

Councillors MacFarlane and Sherriff said the Mechanics Institute offered great potential as a base for social care services is Bradford Council and the NHS decentralized its services.

They said there was also great potential for increased use by residents of the many new houses being built in Denholme.

The councillors added: “Potential closure of this key local building threatens and undermines the very essence of community participation and resilience in a village already under pressure. Local people need local resources. The loss of such facilities represents a huge backwards step.”

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