KEIGHLEY Town Council's precept is to rise by nine per cent.

The 2023-24 budget, agreed by councillors at a special meeting, will add £2.93 a year to the charge for a Band A property – or £4.39 for the average Band D home.

Councillor Mark Curtis, chair of finance for the town council, says the budget "gives the people of Keighley a good deal for a reasonable price".

He added: "Most households will not notice the increase to the precept, with this being a matter of pennies and not pounds.

"What they will see, however, is a significant impact for Keighley. Our events will be better and bigger than ever, and our community-based projects will be expanded to make a real difference in neighbourhoods across Keighley. I am proud of the work done by the budget working group and our finance and audit committee."

Town mayor, Cllr Luke Maunsell, said: "Keighley Town Council has gone from strength to strength, over the last four years in particular. We have come a long way and this budget reflects our vision for the future. The budget is impressive and focused and ensures that the people of this town can maintain their confidence in how the council spends its money. The budget will see meaningful investment and extra opportunities to bring this town together."

He added that the package includes greater investment into the appearance of the town centre, funding to continue successful free 'play in parks' events during school holidays – in partnership with Bradford Council – and the continuation of a popular grants programme and community projects scheme.

Cllr Mohammed Nazam, a town councillor who also represents Keighley Central on Bradford Council, said he had presented an amended budget after an original proposed package included a 32 per cent precept rise.

"I'm delighted that the town council voted through my plans and I was able to secure a significant reduction in the proposed precept increase – which would have placed a heavy financial burden on Keighley residents," he added.