The Government has approved proposals that will unlock £19.1 million of funding to “transform” Brighouse.

A more welcoming town centre, new market building and investment in manufacturing, skills and jobs will be transformative for the town, says The Brighouse Deal.

Business cases for the five projects were approved in July by Calderdale Council and the Brighouse Town Deal Board.

Now the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities has confirmed that plans can progress to the next stage.

These include £9 million to enhance the town’s retail and leisure offer aimed at increasing footfall and encouraging people to stay longer, boosting businesses.

There will be £6 million to improve connectivity to the canalside, harnessing the historic Thornton Square and providing a community and event space to enhance Brighouse’s image.

A new market building will be delivered using £3 million of the cash, with 40 fixed and pop-up market stalls, new toilets and spaces to sit, meet and rest.

A sum of £650,000 will be used to put high-tech manufacturing at the heart of the town’s future by creating an Industry 4.0 Hub where small and medium sized businesses can explore how digital technology can improve their productivity and increase innovation.

And £400,000 will be put aside to develop public spaces on the edge of the town centre.

Work is scheduled to start in 2023 and be completed by mid-2025.