£25k to light up historic Minster

Picture postcard scene of Dewsbury Minster photographed during spring 2013 (23/03/13)
d306a314 — Picture postcard scene of Dewsbury Minster photographed during spring 2013 (23/03/13) d306a314

The cash will be spent on external lights for the church after Kirklees Cabinet backed the plans on Tuesday.

Cabinet papers described the Minster as the most historically important building in the town.

The key benefits of lighting are to highlight the architectural quality of the building, improve safety for users at night and deter vandalism and anti-social behaviour.

Coun Cathy Scott (Lab, Dews East) said: “It’s a welcome investment for Dewsbury. The Minster is a historic building. Unfortunately the previous work didn’t quite work.”

The Grade II listed landmark had grants for new lights in 2000 but they were plagued by technical difficulties. The Minster will be responsible for the future upkeep of the lights.