BUSINESSES are being urged to have their say as part of an initiative which could see over £1 million pumped into Keighley town centre projects.

Focus groups will meet to hear what improvements traders and commercial firms want to see.

The move is part of plans to create a so-called Business Improvement District (BID), which would cover an area stretching from Morrisons to Emily Street and from Highfield to the Leeds City College Keighley Campus.

Traders would pay a 1.5 per cent levy on their business rates to fund a raft of improvements aimed at attracting more visitors and investment.

They would vote on a package of measures which could include increased marketing, new events throughout the year and better information points for visitors and shoppers.

"We want each business within the BID area to have the opportunity to say what it would like to see included," said Keighley town centre manager, Philip Smith.

"The focus groups will cater for independents, multiples, professional services and the night-time economy.

"We'd love as many as possible to come along and get involved so we can hear their ideas."

Last year, survey forms were sent to 460 businesses within the BID area.

"There was an excellent 30 per cent response rate and issues of importance raised included the marketing and promotion of the town, safety and security, vacant premises, parking and signage."

E-mail ktcm@bradford.gov.uk or call 01535 618085 for further details and to get involved.