A shining beacon

Celebrating 100 years of the Rotary Club in Halifax.

Beacon Hill is a remarkable site which offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and outdoor recreation. When Wilkinson Woodward was approached by the Halifax Rotary Club to help support a planned project at the historic site, the team didn’t hesitate to get on board.

The Rotary Club’s project involved the construction of the Beacon Hill Viewing Platform, which would give Halifax locals and visitors the opportunity to take in spectacular panoramic views of the town. Launched to mark the organisation’s 100 years of service to the town, the Beacon Hill Viewing Platform was officially opened on 15^th June 2023, an unforgettable event attended by Wilkinson Woodward Managing Director Maureen Cawthorn and Director Andrew Crabtree.

Marking a centenary of operations is an incredible milestone for any organisation – our firm has been part of the communities of Calderdale and Kirklees for over 130 years. Additionally, the project revolved around giving back to the community. This is something which is at the heart of everything we do at Wilkinson Woodward, and we are always happy to work with likeminded partners to help generate positive change in our communities.

As such, we are proud to have sponsored such a wonderful project at this historic site, which now allows visitors to take in the surroundings above Halifax and beyond from the newly constructed seating area, which is, of course, made form Yorkshire stone. From the Beacon Hill Viewing Platform, visitors can spot surrounding landmarks, including town centre icons such as the Piece Hall, Halifax Minster, and the Town Hall, as well as structures that are further afield, like like Wainhouse Tower and Stoodley Pike.

The Halifax Rotary Club did not choose the site for its centenary project at random. Beacon Hill relates to the network of beacons which, during times of both crisis and celebration, conveyed news around the country. For example, in 1588 it was used to warn of the Spanish Armada, and in the 1790s it was on alert in case of invasion during the Napoleonic wars. Bonfires and beacons have also been lit on the hill to mark royal jubilees and coronations, as well as the peace celebrations following both World War I and World War II. Given the history of the site it seemed like an appropriate place to build something that celebrates the rich heritage of the Rotary Club and the town.

Wilkinson Woodward has been part of the communities of Halifax, Huddersfield and Brighouse for over 130 years, and we are proud to support several causes that make a positive impact in these communities. From donating to fundraising and volunteering, our team is always happy to give local groups, projects and partners a helping hand and we have longstanding relationships with various local charities and organisations. Click here to learn more about some of the causes we support.