I WAS impressed by the letter by Peter Karkoszka in imagining what could be done if Bradford Council sees sense to demolish both old college buildings – We need something to be proud of (Keighley News, October 9).

He talks of using it as an area for open markets and music performance. May I suggest a bandstand? Oh dear, a non-starter since our Government arts spends our tax money on ballet in London for Russian oligarchs to enjoy, instead of supporting local heritage in Yorkshire like brass bands.

But we must not stop believing in Keighley and its potential to become a major tourist destination and hub for the region, which I envisioned in my town plan three weeks ago on this page.

I waited for more details on plans by Utley Centre Limited charity, which has plans for converting the old college building in Cavendish Street. It turns out it is planning to open a business centre with back-to-work schemes and a hot-desk initiative, as well as shops.

However, since the opening of the Civic Centre in North Street and its failure to retain businesses, I think we can doubt this plan’s viability. And there is so much we don’t know about the project, such as how it will raise funds. Presumably some kind of Government grant or is it Bradford Council to pay for service provision? It sounds a bit too cosy for me. And I do not recognise ‘bring the building back to its iconic state’!

I still assert both buildings be demolished, with half of the stone structure at the back left standing, and landscape the rest for public amenity.

It is too big and expensive for a hotel development. Much as I would like to see a central hotel for Keighley, I don’t see UKIP hopeful Samuel Fletcher’s plan as realistic. It would leave the building unused for even more years.

LEO ROBINSON

Leader of the Northern Tea Party

Keighley