PLANS to ban car parking on a Keighley town centre street have sparked a row between neighbouring businesses.

Some companies in Greengate Road say double yellow lines are essential to allow heavy goods vehicles to reach their premises.

But the NRGym fitness centre – at the junction with Worth Way – claims it will be hit hard if members are no longer allowed to park their vehicles there.

Bradford councillors and highways engineers have now pledged to consult all businesses before deciding exactly where to introduce parking restrictions.

The row blew up after Keighley Area Committee, part of Bradford Council, last month approved money for ‘no waiting at any time’ restrictions in Greengate Road, following requests from some businesses.

Bob Stead, head of business development with drinks equipment provider England Worthside Ltd, said: “We have a fleet of four or five HGVS and sometimes we can’t gain access to the buildings.

“We are an £8 million-turnover business with 60 people, and it’s disgraceful. We’ve had articulated lorries turning away because of cars parked on the street.”

Bernard Rock, who owns many of the industrial units in Greengate Road, said: “We need clear space on both sides of the road to get lorries in. We certainly need one side with yellow lines.”

Keith Petty, from Greengate Autos, said: “We have low-loaders coming in, and we have to put cones out because people park up to the gate. Cars park across our gateway.”

NRGym co-owner, Rousel Chowdhury, this week printed signs asking his members to park considerately, and has suggested building a new car park on an adjoining unadopted road.

Mr Chowdhury said: “We want to work with other businesses to come up with a practical solutions. We’ve invested nearly £1 million in this building.

“It’s ludicrous why the council is bringing in these wide-ranging changes. It would have a very negative impact on our business.”

Cllr Khadim Hussain, whose Bradford Council ward includes Greengate Road, pledged to meet with all the businesses to discuss the issue.

He said: “There will be some restrictions. There is an issue with parking and we have to acknowledge that large lorries have difficulties turning.

“We are trying to find a solution acceptable to everyone. We do not want to drive out any of the businesses."

Cllr Val Slater, the council’s planning and transport boss, said: “We are now in the very early stages of the design and a full consultation will take place with those businesses affected."