New bunkhouse accommodation at Oxenhope is promising a dozen new jobs and extra trade for local businesses.

Tailor-made itineraries are being offered at New Westfield Farm, Upper Marsh for visitors on educational field trips or outdoor pursuit holidays.

The recently-opened first phase includes six rooms accommodating up to 84 people, canteen/rest room, showers, washing and drying rooms. A full catering service is offered and there is parking for coaches or mini-buses.

Director of Westfield Lodge Moorside Bunkhouses Dennis Pagdin says the intention is to fill the void locally for group accommodation.

He sees the new development as an ideal staging post for groups involved in educational field trips such as those from schools and universities.

The second phase is scheduled for opening next Spring. It will provide six separate self-catering dormitories with communal kitchen and bathroom facilities. Four will sleep eight people and two will accommodate 10. One of the eight-bed dormitories will provide special facilities for disabled people.

Mr Pagdin believes increasing interest in Bronte Country as a visitor destination will bring a high take-up in bookings and further developments.

He says the expected new jobs and benefits to local traders are good news for the area.

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