Town Hall trustee Sara Robinson said: "The Light Opera and particularly the Youth Theatre are vital organisations in the town and have been resident in a part of the Town Hall for over 40 years.

"We are keen to ensure they remain a part of the Town Hall developments whether in their existing premises on elsewhere on the same site.

"We are working together to look at options and costs with the aim of pooling our resources and expertise so that everybody wins."

Stephen Garrod, committee member of the Youth Theatre said "We are very grateful to the Hebden Bridge Community Association for the commitment it has expressed to provide accommodation for the theatre groups in its future plans for the site.

"Very constructive discussions are now under way and we look forward to a long and fruitful relationship with our new landlord."

The two organisations had both bid to take over the running of the building from Calderdale Council with the commuity group ultimately winning out.

The theatre groups were concerned how the takeover would affect their future but the two groups are now keen to find a positive way forward.