Multi-million pound industrial estate considered for eight-acre site

Procurement of consultants for a feasibility study into development of a multi-million pound industrial estate in Keighley is due to begin.

An investment of up to £7m from the Keighley Towns Fund has been earmarked for the development of the eight-acre site in the Beechcliffe area of the town.

The council-owned site, close to the Hard Ings roundabout to the west of the A629 has been allocated for employment uses since the early 1990s.

The first phase of work will be a feasibility study to look at the level of work needed to secure planning permission, remediate the site, and construct an access road, as well as upgrade the existing path which links Royd Ings with Utley with a new cycle and footpath route.

A second phase would involve undertaking a full programme of work to remediate the site and deliver plots for development.

Councillor Alex Ross-Shaw, Bradford Council’s portfolio holder for regeneration, planning and transport, said: “We know there’s huge demand for employment land in and around Keighley so I’m pleased this project is moving forward.

“The first stage is a feasibility study but ultimately we’re looking to create a new industrial park which will increase the opportunities for businesses in the area and generate employment opportunities for residents.”

Ian Hayfield, chair of Keighley Towns Fund, said: “This £7m allocation is a very specific fund targeting the redevelopment of identified brownfield sites, taking the pressure off greenfield sites.

“The aim is to increase the supply of business accommodation in Keighley, which will bring a significant economic boost for the area.”