SAVED!

In July 2008 Calderdale Council agreed to demolish Calderdale Central Library/Archives and the adjacent Council offices to make way for retail development.

Following a long hard-fought campaign by local people, led by Don't Bulldoze Our Library (DBOL) and the Calderdale Pensioners Association, the Council decided in its meeting on 1 October 2009 to keep the Library/Archives where they are.

The campaign was wide ranging, involving petitions, letters to the local and national press, information stalls and gatherings. Over 16,000 local people and 60 local organisations lent their support, as did a number of councillors and Halifax's MP, Linda Riordan. The campaign also attracted the support of academics from across the country. 

The strength of feeling was further demonstrated by the result of a public consultation undertaken by the Council on the issue - 95% of respondents wished to keep the Library/Archives where they are.

DBOL would like to thank everyone who has taken part in the campaign and helped to save this well-loved, well-used local gem.

However, now is not the time to rest on our laurels. We will continue to remain vigilant for any other threat that may arise. We will also be continuing with our work to protect frontline services provided by West Yorkshire Archive Services and The National Archives. For more information, see the 'Threat to our Archives' page.

This website has been put together by local people who want to stop the Council bulldozing Calderdale Central Library. We do not represent any political party or specific group. Our aim is to let people know what is happening and to encourage them to have their say.