DEBATE over a planned health hub in Keighley turned ugly at a Bradford Council meeting.

There were shouts of “we protest” and “undemocratic” as people were removed from the council chamber.

Afterwards the town’s MP, Robbie Moore, described their treatment as "absolutely disgraceful".

But Bradford Council leader Cllr Susan Hinchcliffe has hit back, saying the objectors' behaviour was "completely unacceptable".

Plans for the new multi-million pound health and wellbeing centre on the former Keighley College site, at the junction of North Street and Cavendish Street, have divided opinion.

Bradford Council bought the site using a £4.1m grant from regional development agency Yorkshire Forward, saying it would be used for a regeneration opportunity, and is adamant the hub will be built there.

But 'green space' campaigners say the centre should be located on an alternative, brownfield site in the town.

There have been petitions for and against, and it was one from supporters of the college site scheme that was discussed at the latest meeting of the council's executive.

Those speaking in favour were given six minutes to speak between them.

Six opponents of the scheme attended, and they were informed they would also be given six minutes to speak between them.

However the item came to a close before some – including Keighley town councillor Paul Cook – had spoken, and there was outrage.

Eventually, a security guard ushered them out.

After the meeting, Cllr Cook said: “We protested, but our protest wasn’t heard.

“They are not listening to Keighley Town Council and they're not listening to the people of Keighley.”

After being told what had happened, Mr Moore said: “This is yet another clear example of absolutely disgraceful behaviour from Labour-run Bradford Council when it comes to their treatment of my constituents."

In a statement, Cllr Hinchcliffe said: “For the individuals from the town council to shout and yell in that way was unlike anything we’ve seen before in a council meeting, it was completely unacceptable and they did a gross disservice to the brilliant people of Keighley who, whichever side of the debate they are on, would expect their representatives to respect the fair balance of debate.

“Both sides have been given the opportunity to speak about their petitions.”

* The public is invited to attend a town meeting at Keighley Civic Centre, North Street, on Wednesday, June 22, 6pm, to discuss the future of the 'green space'.