CAMPAIGNS aimed at supporting independent retailers and the nighttime economy in Keighley have been postponed following the announcement of the new national lockdown.

But Keighley Business Improvement District (BID), which was behind the initiatives, said it would continue to give every support possible to businesses during the new period of tougher Covid restrictions.

Paul Howard, manager of Keighley BID, said: “We are here to provide assistance with accessing grants, loans, schemes such as furlough, ‘bounce back’ loans and local authority grants – to help businesses stay afloat during these financially uncertain times.

“In conjunction with the Virtual College and the BIDs Group, we will be providing free online training to levy-payers which includes training on mental health and wellbeing, and infection prevention and control, alongside additional courses centred around helping food businesses operate home-delivery services.

“While several businesses will be forced to close we recognise the need for people to still access parking, so we will continue to fund free parking at the Airedale Shopping Centre every Saturday until further notice.

“We will provide regular support via social media and work to keep the public apprised of businesses able to operate or provide services in accordance with the new regulations.

“We’ll also conduct online audits for businesses to ensure they remain up-to-date and competitive in the face of this crisis.”

Mr Howard added: “We will continue to be available to the businesses of Keighley and find a way to assist them in any way possible; we are a strong community and we are in this together.”