ONGOING investment in Keighley demonstrates the town is on the march, say leading politicians.

They have called for businesses and organisations to work hard to ensure the forward momentum is not wasted.

Keighley MP Kris Hopkins and ward councillor Khadim Hussain have both pledged to help build on the optimism and opportunities created by several recent projects.

They spoke following the recent release of a business plan showing how Keighley’s proposed £1 million ‘BID’ fund would be spent.

Keighley Town Centre Association (KTCA) wants to create a Business Improvement District (BID), which would raise money through increased business rates to spend on projects attracting shoppers and visitors.

This includes a £494,000 spend on marketing and promotion, £213,000 on safety and security, £276,000 on business support and £160,000 on signs, car parking and transport improvements.

KTCA is currently canvassing support amongst the town’s businesses for a 'yes' vote during the referendum, which is being held this month.

Cllr Khadim Hussain said BID is just the latest project to show the confidence in Keighley of both businesses and public agencies.

He cited the forthcoming £10 million investment in Keighley’s transport infrastructure, which includes a one-way system to combat town centre congestion and the widening of Hard Ings Road.

He said other examples of recent or coming investment were the Cliffe Castle improvements, Heritage Lottery innovations around North Street, and new business parks in Royd Ings and the former Worthington site.

Cllr Khadim added: “Keighley is actually making more progress than people acknowledge. We want to want to make sure this is only the beginning.

“My own vision for Keighley is to see it at the forefront of Bradford district. The BID will help both Keighley businesses and the Bradford economy.”

Cllr Hussain says that Keighley Area Committee, which he chairs, would be perfectly placed to spearhead a strategy for further development.

Mr Hopkins said everyone must continue to work hard to maintain the momentum created by recent investment and the potential of the BID.

He added: “I am proud Keighley is most certainly on the march. Exciting times lie ahead.

“It is always terrific when businesses get together to work in their mutual interest and, of course, for the benefit of the local economy.

“It is also a sign of increasing local business confidence, as the economic climate becomes more benign.

“The local workforce have also got much to be proud of because of the investment their skills have attracted.

“And the money towards improving our transport infrastructure and tourism offering is also a sign of faith in Keighley’s growing importance in the wider region."

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