Campaigners trying to stop plans to close Tolson Museum have stepped up efforts to secure public backing, warning that the historic Ravensknowle Hall could be left empty and vulnerable if the council proceeds without a plan for the building.
Petition gathers pace
Local activists, including Robert McGuin and former Almondbury councillor Bernard McGuin, are urging residents to sign and share a petition opposing Kirklees Council’s closure proposals. The petition has already attracted more than 2,356 signatures.
- Campaigners say the museum celebrates Huddersfield’s industrial past, including textile and road vehicle collections.
- The site also contains a significant natural history collection assembled by Seth Lister Mosley, described by supporters as irreplaceable.
- Concern remains that while museum services might move to the former Huddersfield Library, no firm plans have been published for Ravensknowle Hall itself.
Historic gift and collections
The museum occupies Ravensknowle Hall, given to the people of Huddersfield more than a century ago by Leigh Tolson in memory of his nephews, Robert and James Tolson, who were killed in the First World War. Campaigners stress the site’s long-standing role in preserving local heritage.
Political spotlight as by-election looms
The debate has taken on extra urgency following the resignation of an Almondbury ward councillor earlier this year, which has led to a by-election scheduled for Thursday 13 August. The campaigners say the poll is an opportunity for residents to press for a committed local representative on the museum’s future.
"I will stand as a candidate," announced Robert McGuin on the petition website, framing the election as a chance for voters to choose someone who will campaign for the museum's future.
Campaigners remain focused on persuading the council to set out a transparent, long-term plan for Ravensknowle Hall rather than simply relocating collections. They warn that prolonged uncertainty — which they say has stretched over more than a decade — risks the building falling into disrepair.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Petition signatures | 2,356+ |
| By-election date | Thursday 13 August |
| Location | Ravensknowle Hall, Huddersfield |
Residents who want to follow developments should look for council announcements regarding the museum review and the candidates contesting the Almondbury by-election. Campaigners continue to encourage local people to add their names to the petition and to raise the issue with prospective councillors.
