Clayton West war memorial

On the 2nd October the parish council discussed the issue of the surrounds of the war memorial, as the area is looking tired, and the wall was damaged. I believe this is an important part of the village, and that the men who died in the war should be remembered in surroundings that help pay tribute to their sacrifice to this Country and our freedom.

Minute 241, accessible on the website, details this. We wrote to Kirklees to ask that a wall be repaired, and that consideration be given to improving the area. The wall was quickly patched up in time for Remembrance Sunday (well done Kirklees!). I am pleased to report that the area committee have since taken up this idea, as Cllr. Elaine Ward has mentioned this as a way to help improve the village centre.

What do you think needs doing to the area? Post your ideas and comments here. I believe a start would be to re tarmac the area immediately around the memorial, as this is very worn and damaged. The wall itself is attractive and made of stone, but the topping is made of concrete which spoils the appearance. The grass area could be improved by planting some shrubs, and maybe some flowerbeds. The wall could also have some steps put in to access the grass area easily, and improve its aesthetics.