The key to a bright future for Keighley shopkeepers is the town’s new retail training project.

The Store — half of the ambitious venture — was officially opened on Monday in Cavendish Street.

Bradford Council leader Kris Hopkins turned a golden key to show the project was open for business.

He was joined by representatives from organ-isations involved in Keighley’s regeneration programme.

The Store will offer a diverse range of items for sale.

The traders will be entrepreneurs taking their first steps in the world of selling.

They will develop their business skills while test-marketing their particular type of goods.

Items include contemporary wall art, jewellery, vintage products, special event invitations, bridal stationery, distinctive coffee, bags, home furnishings and recycled computers. During their time in The Store, the fledgling businesses will receive specialist advice from Kickstart and Park Lane College Keighley.

Later this month The Store will be joined in Cavendish Street by its sister project The Academy.

The Academy will offer a wide range of training to existing traders, would-be business people and people looking for jobs in shops.

Courses could range from business tips for market traders to tailored training for staff at the planned Asda supermarket.

The Store is funded by Bradford Council’s Kickstart programme, which supports new and developing businesses across the district.

The council plans to spend £345,000 on the project over a five-year period.

Park Lane College Keighley is also heavily involved and will provide training at the Academy. The council and college have worked closely with Keighley Town Centre Association, whose 160-plus members include popular local shops.

David Fell, the college’s deputy principal, welcomed guests on Monday along with Rachel Rickards, manager of The Store.

Cllr Hopkins said The Store and Academy would give valuable practical support to Keighley’s retail businesses while contributing to local regeneration.

He said: “Keighley is the district’s second largest shopping destination, with thousands of customers who prefer to shop locally and support Keighley retailers. We are determined to improve and sustain a strong retail economy in the town, as a key element of our commitment to support retail businesses across the district.”

David Alexander, chairman of Keighley Town Centre Association, said: “The Store will provide the town with a wider variety of retail and create a more exciting and diverse shopping experience.”

The Store opens daily from Tuesdays to Saturdays, from 10am-5pm.