A conservation blueprint to safeguard the future of the historic Castle Hill site in Huddersfield (Yorkshire, England) has been unveiled. Castle Hill is a Scheduled Ancient Monument and has been settled for at least 4,000 years. Experts regard it as one of Yorkshire's most important early Iron Age hill forts.
     Castle Hill was mired in controversy after developers part-built a hotel which did not match the plans approved by Kirklees Council. The authority took the Thandi Partnership to court and the firm has since demolished the structure. Now a draft conservation management plan has been produced by Leeds-based consultancy Atkins Heritage. It will eventually guide the future use and development of the site and ensure that guidelines are in place to shape its conservation and any new development.
     Council deputy leader John Smithson said: "The conservation management plan is a comprehensive document and will have a vital role in guiding the long-term management and future use of Castle Hill". He added: "Castle Hill forms a daily backdrop for many people's lives and is clearly valued and appreciated by local people." A number of works are also being considered to address decay. These will include new off-site parking, improving footpaths, repairing erosion and damaged areas, and creating a footbridge over the access road.
     The draft conservation plan is available on the council's website. at www.kirklees.gov.uk/castlehillconsultation, and at Huddersfield and Almondbury Libraries.

Source: Yourskire Post Today (25 January 2006)