'People talk down this area a lot but actually it is a nice area'

ASHBROW ward councillors are setting the record straight, dispelling misconceptions about their local area and championing a sense of community.

- By ABIGAIL MARLOW

Located to the north of Huddersfield, the Ashbrow ward encompasses areas like Bradley, Deighton, Brackenhall, Fixby, Birkby and Fartown. The area is known as the home of the original rugby stadium in Huddersfield, the Fartown Ground, which hosted the town’s rugby league side from 1878 to 1992.

Ashbrow has historically been governed by the Labour Party with its current representation no different. Councillor Amanda Pinnock was elected as a ward councillor in 2015, Cllr James Homewood the following year in 2016, and Cllr Zarina Amin took office in 2023.

Meeting Cllrs Pinnock and Homewood at the Chestnut Centre to find out about the key issues faced by the ward and the positive work being done, it quickly became clear not only was the Chestnut Centre a convenient place to meet, but an integral part of the community.

The centre is a council building housing the local library, information centre and children’s centre, and many other essential services.

Councillor Pinnock explained the building is managed by Local Services 2 You, and employs around 40 staff, most of whom live within one mile of the centre. The centre runs a nursery, uniform exchange and baby boutique, supporting those who can’t afford baby clothes.

The local Bread and Butter Thing is also based there, with 150 people attending from Ashbrow alone, along with a separate food bank. It also serves as a base for several local groups. Staff at the centre were praised for their efforts to help people, whatever their enquiry.

Councillor Homewood said: “People know to come here for help and support”

Several other locations play a key part in the community. The Top Club, which was once a working men’s club in Sheepridge, has been revitalised after falling into disrepair.