CAMPAIGNERS are pressing for tiered seating to be reinstated at Keighley's Victoria Hall.

Previous provision was removed by Bradford Council, which manages the building, amid safety fears.

But amateur theatre groups that use the site for productions, and other organisations which stage shows and events there, say the current single-level seating has an impact on audience capacity and enjoyment.

Keighley MP Robbie Moore is backing calls for the return of tiered seats.

He has met with council chief executive Kersten England to discuss the issue.

And a bid for funding to carry out the scheme is under consideration.

"Following lobbying to Bradford Council – including meetings with the chief executive – I am pleased to hear that a funding application to finally get tiered seating safely back at Victoria Hall is being considered," says Mr Moore.

"After the loss of the previous seating some time ago, drama groups have been struggling to get any reassurance from the council that it would be replaced, despite promises. This has had a negative impact on audience numbers and audience experience, and led to some drama and arts groups looking outside of Keighley to hold performances.

"It's vitally important that Keighley maintains a good venue for the performing arts, and I therefore thank Kersten for her time on this issue and for listening to our concerns. My message is clear – if the council is serious about celebrating City of Culture 2025 across our entire district, then our local arts, drama and dance groups should have the same performance space opportunities as those enjoyed in other parts of the district."

Keighley Musical Theatre Company is amongst organisations which use the venue for productions.

A spokesperson says: "We are hopeful that a bid for Bradford 2025 capital funding will be successful, that Keighley gets the venue it deserves and we can continue to bring high-quality entertainment to the town."

A Bradford Council spokesperson says: "We are aware that the tiered seating at Victoria Hall needs replacing. We are working to find a solution and hope that the funding for this will be found soon.

"The old tiered seating was removed because it was about 40 years old and did not meet today’s health and safety regulations. We know that this sort of seating is preferred by local amateur dramatics groups as it gives the audience a better view, so are keen to resolve this issue."