Flats plan for Pioneer House

Pioneer House, which was neglected by its former owners neglected, is being renovated by the council – and its buildings service has submitted plans to transform it into six one-bedroom local authority flats.

Kirklees Council used compulsory purchase powers in 2009 to acquire the Grade II listed building, on Northgate, Dewsbury town centre.

The first phase of a major restoration project was carried out last year to make the building watertight and repair its exterior.

Work on the interior is expected to get under way later this year.

Documents submitted to the council list the extent of work still to be done to the building – including ripping up the tarmacadam and concrete ground floor.

In a statement, agents Aedas said: “The building is an important heritage asset, in terms of architectural style, association with the local Cooperative movement and former mayors Henry Holtom and George Arthur Fox.”