Hall plans to be shown in exhibition

10:28am Friday 5th September 2008

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Plans to transform Keighley's Central Hall into a community centre are due to be revealed to the public this month.

An exhibition showing the proposals is planned by Keighley Voluntary Services, which is leading the project.

Planned amenities include offices, space for meetings, training and functions, and activities for young people and the elderly.

KVS is talking to several community organisations considering moving into the Alice Street building.

Refurbishment work is expected to begin in the New Year if lottery bosses confirm an expected £1 million grant.

The cash was approved in principle earlier this year subject to final proposals being submitted by September 24.

KVS chief officer Caroline Schwaller said submissions would include delivery plans and legal agreements.

These include the transfer of the building's lease from Bradford Council to KVS, to hold on behalf of the local community Ms Schwaller said: "The submission is the last stage before we can think about putting up scaffolding.

"We'll be crossing our fingers the lottery gives the final approval by Christmas, to get started in the New Year."

KVS has formed a steering group with members including Bradford and Keighley councils, the Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) and regeneration body the Airedale Partnership.

Ms Schwaller said KVS was currently considering various methods for managing the building.

She added: "CAB and KVS trustees continue to consider their responsibilities in relation to this challenging and exciting venture.

"Consulting and involving local groups will be very important and we look forward to discussing the project in more detail very soon."