A CEMETERY could be sited near a Keighley beauty spot.

The proposals have been unveiled for a former tip and quarry, off Black Hill Lane, close to Keighley Tarn.

People on the western edge of Keighley have been consulted on the plans.

A spokesman for the agent, the Mineral Planning Group, acting on behalf of a private client, said: “The site comprises brownfield land identified in the Bradford Replacement Unitary Development Plan as a Community Priority Area.

“There is an identified shortage of cemetery space from both a national and local perspective.”

The consultation document notes that any cemetery would include an “ancillary building” to provide welfare facilities and office space.

Keighley West ward councillor Jan Smithies said: “If anything does go ahead I’d like to see an in-depth assessment of this land carried out first to ensure that it is suitable.

“I know residents do have concerns about leakage from the site.

“We also need residents to be clear about what stage this is at. The Mineral Planning Group is consulting with residents on behalf of the land owners, prior to submitting a further planning application to Bradford Council for a cemetery.”

Fellow Keighley West district councillor Brian Morris said he understood that there is still capacity at Utley Cemetery, adding that this should be used first before any additional site is considered.

Commenting on the potential use of the Black Hill Lane site, he said: “People would have great difficulty in getting up there during the winter. Everyone has a right to be buried however and wherever is best for them, but up near the tarn? I personally would say ‘no’.”

Laycock & Braithwaite ward town councillor, John Kirby, said: "I expect there is still an awful lot of work needed before they can even consider putting in an application."

He said residents would want clarity on whether any cemetery at this location would just be for Keighley people or would cover other parts of Bradford district.

Coun Smithies said consultees had until Tuesday, September 30, to provide their feedback, adding that there would be an opportunity to make any formal objections if a planning application is submitted to Bradford Council.

She added that residents of her own ward could raise any concerns they might have at a councillors' surgery tomorrow.

The surgery will be held at Braithwaite New Church. The 4pm to 5.30pm slot is for individual residents wanting confidential personal support, but Keighley West ward residents can discuss the cemetery consultation between 5.30pm and 6.30pm.