TEMPLE Row Centre in Keighley could be transformed into a New Age hub for healing, health and well-being.

Volunteers would be heavily involved in running activities at a ‘Holistic Haven’ that could include a café, classes, treatments, and quiet spaces.

Keighley and District Volunteer Centre has applied for a grant from the Aviva Community Fund Programme and is now appealing for public votes to secure the cash.

If the bid is successful, work would begin in January next year to bring a new lease of life to a town-centre building originally built in the 1980s to support Keighley’s disabled people.

Volunteer Centre spokesman Diane Dale said: “The Holistic Haven will create a calming and therapeutic space where people from all walks of life and of all abilities can gather to balance and heal their bodies and minds together.

“It will be a perfect place for anyone needing a bit of relaxation, social interaction or somewhere where they can simply be themselves and feel at ease.

“We will welcome anyone with a learning disability, people experiencing mental health issues, older people, or anyone else who might be lonely or isolated due to their individual circumstances.”

Diane said the Holistic Haven would become a place where people could receive holistic treatments, explore different spiritual beliefs, take classes to help with getting a healthy body and mind, or simply socialise with others in calming sanctuary spaces.

She said: “We will provide optional therapeutic group activities that enable people to socialise in a non-threatening and supportive environment.

“We will involve guest speakers on men’s and women’s mental health and wellbeing, healthy eating, mindfulness, holistic healing and alternative therapies. We will also offer head massage, reflexology, guided mediation and tai chi sessions.”

Other services could include a walking group, music and dance sessions, a quiet area for reading, and a library of self-help and health materials.

Where appropriate people would be signposted to health and support services provided by the voluntary sector, private companies and public bodies.

A key part of the Holistic Haven would be volunteers, who would help deliver the project, run groups, make refreshments, or become ‘buddies’ people needing support to take part in activities.

A gardening group would transform wasteland alongside the Temple Row Centre to grow herbs, vegetables and flowers, and create a seated garden area for relaxation and meditation.

Visit avivacommunityfund.co.uk to vote for Keighley’s Holistic Haven before the November 20 deadline.