On-street parking charges are to be introduced in Keighley.

The controversial proposal was approved as part of a package of Bradford Council cuts and revenue-boosting measures.

Some fear the charges will deter motorists from visiting the town centre and hit al-ready hard-pressed traders.

The parking charges – which will also apply to Ship-ley, Bingley and Ilkley – will bring in an estimated £113,000.

Bradford Council said it was looking at introducing the charges by the summer of next year.

Assistant director of regen-eration and culture John Blackburn said pay-and-dis-play meters would probably be used, subject to consultation.

Other victims of the Coun-cil’s £30 million in cuts to services in the next year will include Denholme and Wilsden libraries. It was also agreed to close or transfer the ownership of Holden Hall at Oakworth.

Keighley MP Kris Hopkins said the axing of the hall, which will save about £8,000, was “small minded and vindictive”.

The closure of three care homes will save £600,000, a reduction in voluntary sector grants £652,000 and a cut in road maintenance £300,000.

Around 2,000 local authority jobs will go. Safe from the funding axe are £1 million for Keighley’s new health centre, £740,000 for restoration at Cliffe Castle and £400,000 for restoring Haworth Main Street.

l Keighley Trades Union Council is holding a public meeting on Tuesday, March 8, to discuss spending cuts in the NHS and across the local authority, at Keighley Disabled People’s Centre, Temple Row, from 7.30pm.

l Letters – page 12