Partners Operating in the Keighley West Ward

Report of the Keighley Area Co-ordinator to the meeting of the Keighley Area Committee to be held on Thursday 14th April at 1800 in the Keighley Council Chamber, Town Hall, Keighley AK

Subject: Ward Plans

Summary statement: This report informs members of the revised format for the reporting of neighbourhood and ward based action planning activity.

Ian Bairstow Portfolio: Strategic Director, Department of Environment and Sport Corporate

Report Authors: Jeff Bennett, Noreen Akhtar, Overview and Scrutiny Area: Susan Gledhill, Bernard Dunwoodie Report Contact : Jeff Bennett Corporate E-mail: jeff.bennett@bradford.gov.uk

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

1. SUMMARY

This report informs members of the revised format for the reporting of neighbourhood and ward based action planning activity.

2. BACKGROUND

2.1 Community involvement in Neighbourhood Action Planning and the dynamic linkage of local people with those who make decisions on their behalf, deliver local services and maintain a safe and healthy environment forms a significant part the core business of the Neighbourhood Service.

2.2 In response to the priorities of the Keighley Area Action Plan, Members approved the establishment of a locality planning framework that reconciled all current and previous action planning activity within sixteen neighbourhood action plans.

2.3 These plans were presented to and endorsed by the Keighley Area Committee on the 21st of October 2010.

2.4 A key feature of the Neighbourhood Action Planning process is the role of District Ward Councillors both as advocates and scrutinisers with a democratically elected mandate to ensure that local action plans accurately reflect and address the needs of the community. This is an essential element of the process that ensures and maintains the integrity of neighbourhood action plans free from the influence of self selecting bogus community leaders or so called activists and pressure groups who might seek to influence the direction of planning and decision making in their own favour.

3. OVERVIEW AND SCRUTINY COMMITTEE CONSIDERATION

This report will be considered by an Overview and Scrutiny Committee should the item be called in.

4. OTHER CONSIDERATIONS

On the 17th of February 2011, Members took part in a special action planning workshop to discuss the overall content and style of the next Keighley Area Action Plan. It was agreed that, for the purposes of reporting key emerging issues and actions, the content of the sixteen neighbourhood action plans that define the Keighley area should be condensed into six Ward Plans.

4.1 Those plans are detailed in Appendix A.

5. OPTIONS

5.1 That Members endorse the recommendations of this report.

5.2 That Members reject the recommendations of this report.

5.3 That Members agree alternatives to the recommendations of this report.

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

6. FINANCIAL AND RESOURCE APPRAISAL

6.1 It is anticipated that any financial implications for Area Committee funding arising from this report would be subject to funding being made available via the Council’s budget setting process and the receipt of specific requests for support via standard reporting procedures.

6.2 The support and development of effective locality planning activity is part of the Neighbourhood Service core business which is to support the work of the Area Committees.

7. RISK MANAGEMENT

There are no significant risks arising from this report; however the successful delivery of Ward Plans will depend entirely on the continuing maintenance of productive working relationships between the Council, its partners and the community.

8. LEGAL APPRAISAL

None.

9. OTHER IMPLICATIONS

9.1 Equal Rights

Equity of access to consultation and engagement opportunities for all Keighley Area residents is a fundamental principle that underpins the development of Ward Plans.

9.2 Sustainability Implications

It is understood by all involved in the creation of Ward Plans that sustainability considerations be considered within any planned responses to the priorities and actions contained within them.

9.3 Community Safety Implications

There are no significant community safety implications arising from this report. However Community Safety priorities are identified within each Ward Plan.

9.4 Human Rights Act

None.

9.5 Trade Union Implications

None.

8. NOT FOR PUBLICATION DOCUMENTS

None. Report to the Keighley Area Committee

9. RECOMMENDATIONS

9.1 That the report be noted.

9.2 That Members approve the proposed Ward Plan format.

9.3 That Members consider the content of the revised Ward Plans and where appropriate, comment on the issues and opportunities contained within them.

9.4 That Ward Plans are revised and presented to the Area Committee on a 6 monthly basis.

9.5 That Ward Plans inform the continuing development of the Keighley Area Action Plan.

9.6 That Ward Plans continue to be developed in direct consultation with District Ward Councillors.

9.7 That Ward Plans inform and direct the work of their associated Ward Officer Teams.

10. APPENDICES

Appendix A: Ward Plans

11. BACKGROUND DOCUMENTS

Keighley Area Action Plan 2009-11. Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Appendix A: Ward Plans

Craven

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Ward Councillors

Cllr. Michael Kelly Cllr. Andrew Mallinson Cllr. Adrian Naylor

The Manor House 38 Aireburn Avenue Far Ghyll Grange Farm Main Street Steeton Ghyll Grange lane Addingham Keighley High Brunthwaite LS29 0NS BD20 6NH Silsden BD20 0NJ

07531 031657 07971274785 07803 503643

A key feature of the Neighbourhood Action Planning process is the role of District Ward Councillors as Community Champions with a democratically elected mandate to ensure that local action plans accurately reflect and address the real needs of the community.

District Ward Members are there to make sure that Ward Plans are not overtaken or influenced by groups and individual’s who given the chance would try to control the action planning process to suit their own agendas at the expense of the community.

From time to time there will be issues and opportunities that occur in more than one ward or in some cases the whole area. Your Councillors are also your direct link with district and area wide decision making and can make sure that the priorities of the Ward Plan do not go un-noticed either by the Council or its partners.

So if you are thinking of setting up a project or delivering a service in one of the Keighley Wards or Neighbourhoods, check out the Ward Plan and let your Councillors know about it.

You never know, you might just do yourself a favour.

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Partners Operating in the Craven Ward

Project 6 Name Mike Cadger Project 6, Temple Row. Domestic Violence Services Di Reed [email protected] Extended Schools Derek Blackwell [email protected] Incommunities Sarah Benjamin [email protected] CBMDC Street Scene Philip Brook [email protected] Together Women Project Sarah Whitaker [email protected] Early Years and Childcare Amelia Bailey Services [email protected] Jobs @ Job centre plus Keighley Contact Worth House, Worth Way, Keighley, West Yorkshire BD21 5AG

Bradford and Airedale Primary Collette Connolly Care Trust [email protected] Silsden Town Council Silsden Town Clerk [email protected] Steeton Parish Council Steeton Parish Clerk [email protected] Addingham Parish Council Addingham Parish Clerk [email protected] Groundwork Jane Halladay [email protected] Keighley Voluntary Caroline Schwaller Services [email protected] Integrated Youth Support Abina Dorgan – Smith [email protected] Wharfedale & Craven Insp. Susan Sanderson Neighbourhood Policing Team [email protected] Anti Social Behaviour Officer Ian Watson Report to the Keighley Area Committee

[email protected]

Ilkley Fire Station Mick Popple [email protected] Biz Fizz Candy Squire – Watt (Coach) [email protected] Airedale Partnership Rural Economic Policy Officer [email protected] Keighley Localities Office Localities Area Manager Services for Children and 01535 618599 Young People. CBMDC Countryside Service Danny Jackson [email protected] Keighley Volunteer Centre Gary Pedley www.keighleyvb.co.uk Area Parks & Landscapes Mel Smith Manager [email protected]

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Ward and Neighbourhood Overviews

Craven Ward is made up of three neighbourhood action planning area’s, these are Steeton with Eastburn, Silsden and Addingham Each Neighbourhood is distinct with its own unique characteristics and attributes. The Ward is bordered by Ilkley to the East and Keighley Central and East Wards to the South

Steeton with Eastburn

Steeton with Eastburn is located in the Aire valley in the Craven Ward of the City of Bradford Metropolitan District Council. The Villages are between Keighley and Skipton and form a gateway from East Lancashire, North Yorkshire and West Yorkshire. The villages have now evolved to provide homes for a blossoming community, a large number of who travel outside of the area for employment. There are several employers located in the village, the largest of which are Airedale NHS Trust, Cinetic Landis Grinding and Echostar Europe. There are also many other smaller employers such as nursing homes, a bakery, call centre, warehousing, pubs and local shops.

There are two excellent primary schools, Steeton Primary School and Eastburn Junior & Infant School which feed in to South Craven School located in North Yorkshire.

The population of Steeton with Eastburn is 4291. It has a slightly higher age profile than the District as a whole. 9.8% of the population are under 24 years of age, compared to a District average of 12.5%. 16.7% of the population is over 65, compared to a District average of 14.6%.

Silsden Silsden is an attractive rural town in West Yorkshire, situated on the A629 in Airedale on the borders of North Yorkshire and within 10 miles of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. It is located within Bradford Metropolitan District Council, the nearest town being Keighley (4 miles south) and the village of Addingham (4 miles east), and has a population of approximately 8000. There are regular bus links to Keighley, Skipton and Ilkley, the nearest station is Steeton & Silsden on the Airedale Line with a frequent service to Leeds and Bradford. The town is well served with a good selection of local shops, a post office, banks, public houses, a new health centre and dentist. Many who live in the town commute to Leeds and Bradford.

Addingham Addingham village is situated on the A65, 8 miles north of Keighley in the county of West Yorkshire in northern England. The land to the south slopes up to Rombald's Moor and to north lays the peak of Beamsley Beacon with the valley of Wharfedale to the west. It is located in the valley of the River Wharfe and is 3 miles from the Yorkshire Dales National Park. The nearest towns are Ilkley (3 miles east) and Silsden (4 miles south west). Addingham is a former textile mill village most active in the 18th century with five working mills, but is now mainly a commuter village with a population of 3599.

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Current Issues and Opportunities

What follows are the stories of how we obtained some of that information through a programme of community engagement.

Steeton with Eastburn

Vandalism of the telephone box opposite Steeton Methodist Church was expressed as an issue, it was explained that the glass is constantly smashed and youths congregate in this area. It was explained that the Brownie Group which meets in Eastburn on a Friday evening have been experiencing a particular problem with youths creating a nuisance. A high visibility PCSO presence was requested. Concern was expressed that youths are starting fires at the side of Currergate Nursing Home. Teenagers are also beginning to congregate on the bowling green on an evening. It was explained that Police Officers attend every Parish Council Meeting and work in close liaison with the Parish Council.

A Pilot Project to tackle dog fouling is running in the Craven Ward and will run for over 12 months. Steps are being taken to involve all age ranges, local schools, the Parish Council and Police are all onboard with the project. It is hoped that it will be possible to get the anti dog fouling message across to the whole Community. At a neighbourhood forum Councillor Mallinson explained that Bradford Council’s policy is not to supply specific dog bins. However, dog waste can be placed in a plastic bag in any waste bin.

Silsden

Theft of vehicle number plates is a current issue and a number of outdoor events have been planned to fit tamper proof screws as the weather improves. Details will be posted on Silsden.net, by posters. In the press and on the Neighbourhood Policing Team webpage - http://www.westyorkshire.police.uk/npt/

Residents have also raised concerns over the junction of Craven Drive/Craven Avenue where there are difficulties with site lines due to inappropriate parking. A similar situation exists at Elliot Street where access to main road (site line) is problematic and issues exist around parking.

At Howden Road, a new housing development has added to traffic problems at and around Clog Bridge/Waterloo Mills with vehicles causing an obstruction. Cars also park on the cobbled area which was effectively parking on the pavement which constitutes obstruction.

At Belton Road, problems arose as a consequence of indiscriminate parking of vehicles associated with football club which made access to and from the main road hazardous. The club has notices up but people continue to park inappropriately. Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Residents have enquired about how to set up cold calling zones. Inspector Sanderson explained this had been undertaken successfully in an area in Ilkley and had the advantage of Trading Standards informing utilities not to call, giving local residents the confidence to challenge and say no to doorstep callers. It required public support - 80% of residents in the area had to be in support and there were cost implications (£1.70 per household to cover costs such as stickers – lamppost signs etc). In light of this and with limited resources attention is being directed to areas identified as particularly vulnerable but if particular neighbourhoods were interested in exploring this further it could be investigated.

Residents at a recent Neighbourhood Forum expressed their concerns about the ‘drop in’ session regarding the potential location of a new waste disposal plant. They had found to be unsatisfactory and asked for a complaint to be formally recorded. It was felt that it was not a consultation as there was neither feedback nor answers to queries given.

Cllr Naylor informed the meeting that he and fellow Ward Councillors had been in discussion with the Assistant Director (Planning, Transport & Highways), requesting presence of officers with technical knowledge in respect of the proposal to be in attendance. This had not been possible but it had been agreed that a further meeting with relevant (informed) officer presence could be held if this was the wish of residents.

The dates associated with the consultation were for it to finish at the end of March 2011 ahead of a report scheduled to go to the Council Executive May 2012. Work would be undertaken autumn 2011 to reflect on findings/representation and developments of the consultations. This would effectively be an opportunity to look again at the 7 locations identified and at the stage some could be potentially discounted in favour of other sites. It was understood that as part of the process other sites might be subsequently identified.

Councillor’s were well aware of the strength of resident feeling on this matter and were keen to ensure that a further meeting took place as quickly as possible. The Neighbourhood Forum had been planned for some time and the venue was not ideal, due to the increased numbers of attendees and residents were overwhelmingly in favour of a further meeting taking place.

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Addingham

Concern over dog fouling on footpaths and open spaces in the village continues to be highlighted as a problem. At a recent village forum Ward Cllr Kelly discussed the ongoing Anti Dog Fouling Campaign in the Craven Ward. The children at the local schools have been involved in promoting the message that it was not acceptable for your dog to foul and then not clear it up. The message “Bag it, Tie it, Bin it” was being very well received and the children were enjoying the many activities involved. The Campaign fell neatly into part of the curriculum, PSHCE, which the children had to follow. Neighbourhood Wardens are operating a zero tolerance policy. Residents have also been advised that they could report neighbours and residents if they saw them allowing their pets to foul and not clean up. The Wardens had no problem issuing tickets.

“Speedwatches” have been conducted in response to growing concerns over speeding traffic.

It has been a busy year for the Parish Council who had given their response to the proposed changes to the admissions policy for Ilkley Grammar School. They were now waiting to see what happened to Addingham’s children when the children moving on to secondary school were notified of their school allocation in March.

The village’s Christmas Lights had been a disappointment and they were currently looking to scrap the existing lights and replace them all in time for next year. Any proposals could be discussed at the Annual Village Meeting.

The Parish Council was concerned about several parking issues, namely, that vehicles were parking inconsiderately, blocking pavements and also were staying longer than allowed in certain areas. This is no longer the concern of the Police but of parking services. Parking Services have been requested to visit Addingham to try and ease some of the problems. It was stated however, that if a vehicle was causing an obstruction then that would be a problem for the police to deal with.

A further 25 allotments had been created from some vacant land in the Parish Council’s possession. This had completely eliminated the waiting list for allotments as it then stood but that the list was now beginning again.

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Ward Priorities and Responses

Prosperity and Regeneration

Improve the number of tourists and visitors to the Ward and the promotion of local businesses.

The business Community of the Ward is keen to encourage a ‘Buy Local Campaign’. A number of business associations have come together and held local business forums to discuss how businesses can work together to promote the wide range of companies in the area as well as the promotion of a buy local campaign.

Development of a central community facility.

Concern has been raised by residents at Neighbourhood Forums and following a consultation by Steeton-with-Eastburn Parish Council at the lack of a central community facility for Steeton Village. The Parish Council have agreed that a new building should be constructed on the site of Steeton Bowling Pavilion. It would be a community hub that would be available seven days a week 52 weeks of the year.

Improve facilities for passengers at Steeton with Silsden Railway Station

Residents at a number of Neighbourhood Forums have raised concern over the difficulty of access at Steeton with Silsden Railway Station. A working group was set up which included Elected Members, Parish Councillors, Airedale Partnership and Council officers to look at the feasibility of delivering a programme of works to improve safer access to the Leeds bound platform. £50,000 of funding was secured from a range of sources to enable the construction of a new footpath which allowed for improved access.

Children and Young People

Children and young people are our future and our greatest asset. The Ward has a growing young population which will challenge services to make sure they remain responsive and appropriate to the growing and changing needs of all young people including those more vulnerable groups who are at greater risk of social exclusion and educational failure.

The Bradford district has a strategic vision for all young people this is linked to the Every Child Matters agenda and it aims to ensure that every child and young person Report to the Keighley Area Committee

has the best start in life and is supported towards achieving the five outcomes: Be healthy; Stay safe; Enjoy and achieve; Make a positive contribution; and Achieve economic wellbeing.

Improve facilities for young people in the park. Across the whole of Craven Ward communities have requested improvements to facilities in parks for young people. Working with Elected Members, Youth Councils, Silsden Town Council, Officers of Bradford Council and Keighley Area Committee a new play facility has been delivered to Silsden at a cost of £76,000 funding was sourced from Yorventure, WREN, Keighley Area Committee and the Ward Investment Fund.

Addingham Civic Society has raised £60,000 of funding to install a children’s play area opposite the recently opened Health Centre. Improve youth activities for young people Craven Ward Councillors, Keighley Area Committee, and Silsden Town Council have helped in developing Silsden’s Friday Night Project for young people of Silsden. The project was developed following an increase in anti social behaviour, additional sessions are aimed at young people aged 13 to 19 and are overseen by youth workers from Bradford’s Integrated Youth Service and Police Community Support Officers. Improve play facilities. Steeton with Eastburn Parish Council has improved facilities at Eastburn Playing Field at a cost of £140,000. The scheme attracted funding from Bradford Council’s Ward Investment Fund, Playbuilder, Yorventure and WREN and delivered improved drainage for the football field, new play equipment for young children, adult fitness equipment and Children from Eastburn Junior and Infant School planted 100 young trees and 100 shrubs and herbaceous native species with the help of members of the 'Forest of Bradford'.

Safer Communities Reducing crime and people’s fear of crime and anti-social behaviour is vital to creating a long-term, sustainable future. The challenge is to improve public confidence in our ability to deliver safety and security in our communities and make sure that people’s prosperity and wellbeing are not threatened by crime, anti-social behaviour of any kind. As well as continuing to reduce crime, we must make sure that we are responding to the issues people care most about, and that our work together is really visible to communities across the Ward.

Concern over parking and irresponsible driving. Concerns of safety were raised by residents living on Pot Lane due to vehicles driving on to a track frequently used by pedestrians .Following discussion with Ward Councillors, members have agreed to fund the installation of bollards, which will restrict access and improve safety for residents of the area.

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Concern over speeding traffic A number of successful speedwatch and casualty reduction campaigns have been run by the Neighbourhood Policing Team often with the assistance of residents. The campaign has been augmented by the installation of speed activated signs across a number of locations in the Ward to encourage safe driving funded by Ward Members through Ward Investment Fund. Anti-social behaviour issues and youth nuisance. Elected Members and members of the community have raised concern over the issue of anti-social behaviour. This will be referred to the relevant multi agency team for action. Health and Well being for all. Our sense of wellbeing and health is affected by every aspect of our lives: where we live and work, the natural and built environment, our income, education, the food we eat, our age, family background, social networks and the services we use. Improved access to health facilities. Over recent times Craven Ward has benefited from two new health care centres in Silsden and Addingham and there is a well established health centre for Steeton with Eastburn. The health care needs of the area are well catered for by Airedale General Hospital and there are a number of well place pharmacies across the ward. The area does suffer from a lack of a dental surgery in the Steeton area. Improved health opportunities for the community. Each Parish within the Ward has attracted a wide range of funding to improve play and sports facilities for the community. This has attracted more people to use the facilities which in turn have a direct improvement to the health of the community. Improved Sports facilities Elected Members have given a grant through the Area Initiatives fund to enable the purchase of a range of riding equipment which will allow young people to improve their skills through sport. Also, funds have been allocated to Sports clubs to improve lighting of sports pitches as well as funds to purchase sports equipment for scouts and brownies. Improving the Environment Built and natural environments play an important role in how people feel about where they live, work and spend their leisure time. Keighley West deserves an Environment that will be valued by residents and visitors alike. A clean, high quality, safe local environment is integral to the Ward’s success. It will contribute to our sense of health and wellbeing, and the creation of strong, safe, and sustainable communities. Work will be done to create a clean, green and attractive visible environment within all of Keighley West’s Neighbourhoods. Reducing litter and Fly tipping. Working with the Community, Parish and Town Councils visual audits have been undertaken or are planned and a number of community lead clean ups have been delivered . Members of the community will be encouraged to become more actively involved in their neighbourhood and where appropriate liaise with Neighbourhood Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Wardens and Council Departments to address any concerns they might have regarding the environment. Reduce dog fouling in local parks, public spaces and footpaths Following increased concern being raised at Neighbourhood Forums, Councillor Surgeries and calls in to B Direct, Elected members of Craven Ward allocated a substantial amount of Area Initiative Funding to run a dog fouling campaign as detailed previously. Residents are keen to enhance and improve the look of area Across the Ward community groups, the wider community, Elected Members, Parish and Town Councils have been engaged in planting wild flowers, regular grass cutting, increasing the number of flowerboxes and the planting of trees and shrubs. We will continue to encourage this kind of active citizenship. Strong and Cohesive Communities People in strong and cohesive communities take pride in where they live and show respect for the people they live with. Keighley West ward is striving to be a place where people get on well together, where people value each other and where everyone has the opportunity to get involved in community life in a variety of ways. The Ward is rich in its diversity both in terms of landscape and people: from rural villages to urban housing estates, Keighley West Ward has it all. Similarly, the ward is home to a wide range of people from different cultures, backgrounds and experiences. The history and diversity mean that people often associate strongly with the place they live in rather than the Keighley Area as a whole. Development of community facilities. Residents across the Ward have a strong sense of community and value the area in which they live. In each of the parishes plans are in the process of being developed to deliver a purpose built community facility. Raise awareness in the community that they are able to influence decision making at a local and district level. Neighbourhood/village Forums are well established in the Ward and afford an opportunity for the community become actively involved in shaping the future of their own neighbourhoods. New opportunities will need to be developed and organised at a local level to encourage direct community participation in local decision making Development of a community voice especially for young people We will encourage young people to attend Parish and Town Councils meetings, Neighbourhood Forums and Community Meetings to share their ideas and experiences.

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Useful Links

City of Bradford Metropolitan District Council. www.bradford.gov.uk

Neighbourhood Statistics, this is central government resource where users access key statistics by typing in a postcode. Information is primarily gathered from National Census data, and other periodical studies. www.neighbourhood.statistics.gov.uk

Bradford Observatory, this resource covers a range of themes linked to Bradford District's Sustainable Community Strategy (Big Plan), information is available on a constituency and ward basis. http://www.bradfordobservatory.com

Beat Crime Info is a crime incident mapping website for people in West Yorkshire. It provides up to date information about crime in an area, statistics are available for any neighbourhood by typing in a postcode. www.beatcrime.info

Compiled by: Bernard Dunwoodie Ward Co-ordinator Keighley Area Co-ordinators Office

March 2011 Report to the Keighley Area Committee

ILKLEY

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Ward Councillors

Cllr. Mike Gibbons Cllr. Anne Hawkesworth Cllr. Martin Smith

Apt 3 Conservative Leader’s 102, Kings Road 19, Low Fold Office Ilkley Ilkley City Hall LS29 9BZ LS29 8UN Bradford BD1 1HY

Tel: 07967 032996 Tel: 01274 432079 Tel: 07748 931942

So if you are thinking of setting up a project or delivering a service in one of the Keighley Wards or Neighbourhoods, check out the Ward Plan and let your Councillors know about it.

You never know, you might just do yourself a favour.

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Partners Operating in the Ilkley Ward

Project 6 Mike Cadger Drug and Alcohol Support Project 6, Temple Row. Domestic Violence Services Di Reed [email protected] Incommunities Sarah Benjamin [email protected] Bradford District Council Philip Brook Street Scene [email protected] Early Years and Childcare Amelia Bailey Services [email protected] Jobs @ Job Centre plus Keighley Worth House, Worth Way, Keighley, BD21 5AG

Ilkley Parish Council The Clerk [email protected] Groundwork Jane Halladay Environmental Initiatives [email protected] Keighley and Ilkley Voluntary Caroline Schwaller & Community Action KIVCA [email protected] Youth Services Abina Dorgan-Smith Ilkley Youth & Community [email protected] Association (Warehouse) Ilkley & Craven NPT Insp Sue Sanderson Neighbourhood Policing Team [email protected] Ilkley Fire Station Mick Popple [email protected] Ian Watson Anti Social Behaviour Team [email protected] CBMDC Countryside Service Danny Jackson [email protected] Keighley Localities Office Localities Area Manager Services for Children and 01535 618599 Young People. Keighley Volunteer Centre Gary Pedley www.keighleyvb.co.uk Area Parks & Landscapes Mel Smith Manager [email protected] Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Ward and Neighbourhood Overviews

Ilkley ward is located within the Wharfe valley to the north of the district and is a scenic and prosperous area. The ward contains the town of Ilkley, neighbouring Ben Rhydding and most of Ilkley Moor. According to the Index of Multiple Deprivation 2007, Ilkley has very low levels of deprivation. Three quarters of the population live in neighbourhoods that fall within the 20% least deprived in England and the majority of property is of private tenure.

The ward has a higher than District (and national) average of people aged over 65 with a significant proportion of 80. An economically active and prosperous ward, there is little by way of major industry or commerce (although it is the UK home of The Woolmark Company), but the Town centre hosts a high proliferation of independent and specialty shops. The town’s heritage and surrounding countryside and established festival programme make tourism an important local industry.

In terms of housing characteristics the ward compares favourably with other parts of the District with lower levels of overcrowding than found in many other parts of the locality and has substantially fewer households without amenities. Only 18.9% of households do not have access to a car van (District 32.5%) and the area is well served by its transport links in terms of commuting with rail stations at Ilkley and Ben Rhydding.

Children and young people attend a large number of state and independent primary schools; the town is home to Ilkley Grammar school which is currently re-evaluating plans for re-development following the discontinuation of the Building Schools for the Future programme.

In terms of safety, Ilkley is one of the quieter areas within the Airedale and North Bradford police division with a lower level of calls to service than other neighbourhoods within the District. Residents in Ilkley have high levels of satisfaction with the police and the services provided. At present Ilkley has its own manned police station which allows residents to access information, support and advice when necessary. The ward also benefits from a high number of Neighbourhood Watch schemes.

Statistically Ilkley is identified as a healthy community; however an ageing population generates an increased demand on some services. Ilkley is served by the nearby Airedale Hospital in Steeton and by primary care practices in the town itself. There are a number of sport related facilities and the Ilkley Lido and swimming complex provides an opportunity for structured fitness activity.

Environmentally the area is pleasing with relatively low levels of littering and fly-tipping and satisfaction levels are high. Increased visitor numbers in the summer months result in problems in particular areas (notably the park and open space to the river side) but this has been the focus of successful partnership intervention.

The Friends of Ilkley Moor was formed in response to the 2006 Moor fire; the group works closely with the Countryside service to undertake environmental improvements and conservation to the moor.

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

The built environment and in particular the areas Conservation status feature in the Town’s parish plan.

With a rich cultural history and vibrant festival programme the area values and promotes its heritage. Ilkley has a positive and productive record of volunteering and residents play an active role in the development of facilities and activities in the area. The Clarke Foley Centre provides an enviable programme of social activities for older people and there are a variety of well used, accessible buildings hosting a range of community use. Ilkley Parish Council is actively involved in the regeneration, development and promotion of Ilkley and has produced a well received Parish Plan (updated 2010).

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Current Issues and Opportunities

Issues have been identified and collated from a variety of sources over the past six months. Sources include recent Parish Council and Police PACT (Partners and Communities Together) meetings. Information is received from Ward Councillors within their roles as community champions as well as key partners including the Health Service, Incommunities, the Voluntary Sector, individuals, businesses and organisations who live and work in the Ilkley Ward. Additional community engagement takes place is a variety of ways, notably through the work and contact of the neighbourhood wardens, but also through ongoing and developing community engagement programme.

Ward Priorities and Responses

Prosperity and Regeneration

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Children and Young People

Children and young people are our future and our greatest asset. The Bradford district has a strategic vision for all young people this is linked to the Every Child Matters agenda and it aims to ensure that every child and young person has the best start in life and is supported towards achieving the five outcomes: Be healthy; Stay safe; Enjoy and achieve; Make a positive contribution; and Achieve economic wellbeing. Family support – access to advice, supporting parenting, pre school activities. Provision of mums and tots groups is widespread throughout the ward. A new Children’s Centre opened late summer 2010 and current figures reflect more than 300 families are involved with the services provided. The centre will continue to be actively promoted to residents. Improved recreational opportunities and out of school activities for young people. Young people have been active in petitioning for improved services to the Towns existing facility ‘The Warehouse’ - Ilkley Youth and Community Associations building. The development of the new Children’s Centre has resulted in a shared entrance and lift facility – allowing full access to the first floor of the building. Councillors have recently allocated funds to support refurbishment and equipment costs and young people will be further encouraged to both use the facilities and help to develop the centre. In addition Ilkley is fortunate to have a number of sport clubs with youth development programmes; these have been supported through Area Initiative Funding and Community Chest awards. The future programmes of a range of Scout and Guide groups in the area were recently supported through the allocation of Uniformed Youth Service funding. Provision of Safe, accessible plays areas. Improved recreational opportunities and out of school activities for young people. Improvements to the Warehouse include a long term vision for the development of the outdoor space. Safer Communities

Reducing crime and people’s fear of crime and anti-social behaviour is vital to creating a long-term, sustainable future. The challenge is to improve public confidence in our ability to deliver safety and security in our communities and make sure that people’s prosperity and wellbeing are not threatened by crime, anti-social behaviour of any kind. As well as continuing to reduce crime, we must make sure that we are responding to the issues people care most about, and that our work together is really visible to communities across the Ward.

Improved road safety – speeding and problem parking.

Community based speed watches have been delivered across the ward and civil enforcement officers and neighbourhood wardens deployed to address issues of particular concern. Initiatives will continue in partnership with schools across the ward to educate and inform on responsible parking and road safety.

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Youth disorder and anti social behaviour.

A targeted approach to specific incidents has been undertaken, (notably ASB increases during the summer months) and the police approach has been prompt. and vigilant. Residents will continue to be encouraged to report any incidents of concern to build up profiles and influence the deployment of resources.

Fear of crime –reassurance mapping.

Police and Community Together (PACT) meetings have been delivered successfully and have good attendance. The area enjoys a high level of Neighbourhood Watch schemes. A joint approach by the Police and Trading Standards resulted in a no cold-calling scheme in the Grove Park estate and is the first of its kind in the Wharfe Valley. Plans to extend schemes of this nature will be kept under review.

Health and Well Being for All

Our sense of wellbeing and health is affected by every aspect of our lives: where we live and work, the natural and built environment, our income, education, the food we eat, our age, family background, social networks and the services we use.

Promoting the health and well being of older people.

Older people across the ward value the benefit gained from the provision of activities and services available locally. The ward has a higher than average elderly population and the importance of opportunities to socialise is recognised as a determinant of well being. Additional work will be done across the ward to link and promote services and explore opportunities for intergenerational work. The value of a range of Voluntary and Community Sector effort contributes to maintaining the independence of older people to stay well in their own homes. Ilkley Good Neighbours will launch ShopAssist for the elderly and disabled in Ilkley to provide transport or accompaniment to shops.

Proximity to local healthcare and awareness of provision.

For some residents access to hospital provision is a problem due to transport issues, there is good primary care available locally.

Encourage physical activity.

Residents are fortunate to enjoy access to open countryside and value the ‘green’ exercise potential afforded to them. Maintenance of footpaths (including work through the Friends of Ilkley Moor) and opportunities to promote walking locally will continue to be delivered. This is complemented by the facilities of the local parks. The Friends of Ilkley Lido are developing a business plan outlining priorities for improvement and development.

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Improving the Environment

Built and natural environments play an important role in how people feel about where they live, work and spend their leisure time. Ilkley benefits from an environment valued by residents and visitors alike. A clean, high quality, safe local environment and respect for its conservation status are integral to the Ward’s success.

Clean cared for, public and private spaces.

A clean and cared for local environment is a priority across the ward and in general the area is one of high standards. Litter and fly tipping along the River side area is problematic during the spring and summer months but prompt response and education through the involvement of the neighbourhood wardens is having an impact. Partnership work with Street Scene and Environmental Enforcement ensures a collective approach in problem areas. This will continue. Ilkley in Bloom - the work of a number of dedicated active citizens contributes to the Ilkley area looking florally attractive and litter and graffiti free all the year round. Work will continue to support and promote the work of this group.

Unacceptable levels of dog fouling.

Dog fouling is an issue in some areas – work to address this will continue across the locality – taking learning from the Craven campaign currently underway.

Ilkley Moor – continued programme of development.

Links to the tourism strategy. The Friends of Ilkley Moor is a voluntary and democratic group composed of people who love Ilkley Moor and want to see it conserved and improved for future generations. Set up to restore, protect and enhance Ilkley Moor it provides an opportunity for community involvement through a variety of volunteering opportunity.

Stronger Communities

People in strong and cohesive communities take pride in where they live and show respect for the people they live with. Ilkley examples a place where people get on well together, value each other and where everyone has the opportunity to get involved in community life in a variety of ways. The history and culture of the area is valued by residents and visitors alike and a strong festival programme positively promotes the town. Located on the outskirts of the constituency area residents associate strongly with the place they live in, rather than the Keighley Area as a whole.

Implementation of the Parish Plan

The Parish Plan outlines a vision for the locality and works with partners, residents and businesses to provide suitable, achievable responses to local concern. As such it has the potential to influence a wide range of organisations and processes. Local Parish Council Report to the Keighley Area Committee

elections take place May 2011. The Localities bill will be discussed at forthcoming council meetings and potentially shape future activity.

Value and promote community life.

Shared interest through sport, the arts and cultural activity builds community pride and cohesion and opportunities to build on existing good practise will continue to be promoted. Ilkley residents value the strong sense of community and this is enhanced through a range of sporting and cultural provision.

Active Citizenship.

Improved community led activity will be promoted through the Year of Active Citizenship. Opportunities for volunteering and developing culture and sport activities will be positively encouraged and supported and examples of good practise shared across the ward.

Community Assets

The sustainability and long term availability of public resources will be encouraged through the support given to formally constituted groups (e.g. Community or Development Trust).

Useful Links

City of Bradford Metropolitan District Council. www.bradford.gov.uk

Bradford Observatory, this resource covers a range of themes linked to Bradford District's Sustainable Community Strategy (Big Plan); information is available on a constituency and ward basis. http://www.bradfordobservatory.com

Ilkley Parish Plan http://www.ilkley.org.uk/parishcouncil/images/stories/documents/Ilkley_Parish_Plan_- _Revised_2010.pdf

Compiled by: Sue Gledhill Area Development Officer Keighley Area Co-ordinators Office

March 2011 Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Keighley Central

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Ward Councillors

Cllr. Abid Hussain Cllr. Zafar Ali Cllr. Khadim Hussain

75 Devonshire Street 2 Cark Road 15 Drake Street Keighley Keighley Keighley BD21 2BJ BD21 3 BT BD21 3AY

07816 854100 07940 741438 07939 438438

So if you are thinking of setting up a project or delivering a service in one of the Keighley Wards or Neighbourhoods, check out the Ward Plan and let your Councillors know about it.

You never know, you might just do yourself a favour.

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Partners Operating in the Keighley Central Ward

Project 6 Name Mike Cadger Contact Project 6, Temple Row. Domestic Violence Services Di Reed [email protected] Extended Schools Derek Blackwell Contact [email protected] Incommunities Michelle Cull michelle [email protected] CBMDC Street Scene Philip Brook [email protected] Keighley Town Centre Manager Philip Smith [email protected] Together Women Project Name Sarah Whitaker Contact [email protected] Early Years and Childcare Name Amelia Bailey Services Contact [email protected] Jobs @ Name Job centre plus Keighley Contact Worth House, Worth Way, Keighley, West Yorkshire BD21 5AG Bradford and Airedale Primary Name Collette Connolly Care Trust Contact [email protected] Groundwork Name Jane Halladay Contact [email protected] Keighley Voluntary Name Caroline Schwaller Services Contact [email protected] Integrated Youth Support Name Carole Bywater Contact [email protected] Airedale and North Bradford Name Insp Wayne Horner Neighbourhood Policing Team Contact [email protected] Cliffe Castle Name Rachel Terry Contact Spring Gardens Lane, Keighley, West Yorkshire BD20 6LH 01535 618 234 Keighley Town Council The Clerk www.keighley.gov.uk Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Keighley Fire Station N Kirk [email protected] Anti Social Behaviour Officer Ian Watson [email protected] Yorkshire Housing Shazad Kibria [email protected] Low fold Family Centre The Manager 01535 618300 KAWACC The Centre Manager Keighley Asian Women & 01535 667359 Children’s Centre Bangladeshi Community The Centre Manager Association (BCA) 01535 604359 Highfield Community The Centre Manager Association 01535 608900 Extended Schools Nazia Hussain Keighley First [email protected] CBMDC Countryside Service Danny Jackson [email protected] Park Ranger Service Senior Park Ranger 01274 431000 Parking Services Parking Services Manager 01274 434300 Keighley Localities Office Localities Area Manager Services for Children and 01535 618599 Young People. Bradford District Council Philip Brook Street Scene [email protected] Area Parks & Landscapes Mel Smith Manager [email protected] Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Ward and Neighbourhood Overviews

Keighley Central Ward is made up of three neighbourhood action planning area’s, these are Beechcliffe and Utley, Keighley Fields and Knowle Park. Each Neighbourhood is distinct with its own unique characteristics and attributes. The Ward is bordered by Keighley East Ward to the East, Keighley West Ward to the West and Craven ward to the North.

Beechcliffe & Utley

Beechcliffe & Utley is located 1.5 miles North West of Keighley town centre; the area is divided by Skipton Road (B6265) Utley to the west and Beechcliffe to the east. It is a diverse community residing in a wide range of property types with predominately terraced properties in Beechcliffe and a mixture of semi detached and detached properties in Utley. The area is mainly residential and benefits from a local heritage museum, Cliffe Castle, which is built in the Victorian neo-Gothic style and situated in well maintained parkland. It contains a series of galleries dedicated to various aspects of local heritage as well as large new comprehensive school – Green Head High School. The area is enclosed by hills: Ilkley Moor to the north and to the south lie the Pennines which form the historic border between Lancashire and Yorkshire.

Keighley Fields

Keighley Fields is located 0.5 miles west & east of Keighley town centre; the area is dissected north to south by North Street and Skipton Road, Highfield to the west and Lawkholme to the east. It is a diverse community living in a wide range of property types of mixed tenure, being predominately terraced properties intermingled with semi detached and detached properties. The area is mainly residential and benefits from a number of well established community centres, a local heritage museum, Cliffe Castle, which is built in the Victorian neo-Gothic style and situated in well maintained parkland. It contains a series of galleries dedicated to various aspects of local heritage as well as large new comprehensive school – Green Head High School. The area is enclosed by hills: Ilkley Moor to the north and to the south lie the Pennines which form the historic border between Lancashire and Yorkshire.

Knowle Park

Knowle Park is located 1 mile south west of Keighley town centre; it is a diverse community living in houses mainly built during the Victorian era when the textile trade was booming. The area is mainly residential in character with some light industry concentrated in the valley bottom.

Keighley is a post-industrial town in West Yorkshire, 8 miles north of the city of Bradford and was famous for textiles and textile machinery manufacturing. It is now most famous to rail enthusiasts for the restored Keighley and Worth Valley railway, where steam trains leave regularly from Ingrow Station westwards to the village of Haworth.

The area is enclosed by hills: Ilkley Moor to the north and to the south lie the Pennines, which form the historic border between Lancashire and Yorkshire.

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Current Issues and Opportunities

What follows are the stories of how we obtained some of that information thorough a programme of community engagement.

Beechcliffe & Utley

Recent Neighbourhood Forums have raised continuing concern over the building of University Academy (formally Greenhead School) due to the level of traffic especially large wagons and the number of cars parked nearby by workman on site and the continuing fear that parking facilities for the new school are inadequate for the staff employed. Dave Copeland, Vice Principle of the Academy was invited to attend and gave an update on progress to date and reasons for the delays primarily due to bad weather over winter and confirmed space for parking at the school numbered 120 and this would be sufficient spaces for staff and students. Concern still remains regarding large vehicle movements once as the new school is up and running as the old school buildings will need to be demolished. It was confirmed that disruption would be kept to a minimum.

Local residents continue to be concerned over the speed of traffic on Skipton Road and the difficulty of crossing the road due the level and speed of traffic. Police officers confirmed “Speedwatch” had been in operation and residents in the locality had taken part. Highways Department have been asked to monitor traffic flow and to look at the possibility of a refuge being built to allow safe crossing.

Drugs and drug dealing continue to be a cause for concern in the in the Ward. A number of statutory and voluntary agencies are working collectively to address this issue. Local information is the key and efforts will be made to encourage residents to be vigilant and share information.

Keighley Fields

Residents were concerned about people throwing out food for birds and other animals. This encourages rats and other stray animals to converge on the area. Neighbourhood Wardens have leafleted the area and will continue to monitor the situation and advise where appropriate.

There were concerns over cars being parked on the pavement in Bradford Street forcing pedestrians to walk into the road. Cars were being washed outside the garage with water spreading over the road and pavement, and in cold weather this has been turning to ice, causing a hazard. Residents were also concerned over the number of cars parked along Bradford Street that did not belong to anyone living in the area; these cars were left there for months on end. Following the meeting, uniformed services have increased patrols in the area and discussions had taken place with the garage owner and cars are now parked in an appropriate manner. Report to the Keighley Area Committee

A lively discussion took place at the Lawkholme forum regarding problems of parking and speeding cars in the area. In order to confirm the level of problems in Emily Street it was decided to fit a data logger which would record the speed and number of vehicles using the road and this would be analysed and reported back at the next Neighbourhood Forum.

Knowle Park

Residents reported problems with traffic and parked vehicles by Lund’s Butchers at the top of Malsis Road. When road works were being carried out, the yellow lines were extended, supposedly for the duration of the works. However, when the works were finished the lines were not removed which had led to these problems. Following discussions with Highways Department a decision was taken to remove yellow lines as requested.

Indiscriminate parking around the Bangladeshi Community Association was also reported to be a problem. Parking Services will visit the area.

Residents were concerned about the level of dog fouling in the area. The Neighbourhood Warden advised that the Council was now operating a zero tolerance approach with regards to dog fouling. Previously, owners who allowed their dogs to foul would be given advice and support but the ongoing problems meant that penalty tickets would now be issued immediately because the problem was perceived to be increasing with the dark nights approaching. Residents were encouraged to report on their neighbours or other people who they knew were allowing their dogs to foul and not clean up after them. Information should be phoned through on 01274 431000 and this will be filtered through to the Wardens to take appropriate action.

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Ward Priorities and Responses

Prosperity & Regeneration

Development and Improvement of Keighley Town Centre

Working with partners across a wide range of disciplines plans are in the process of being developed for North Street, the aim of which is to improve the public realm, traffic flow and work with property owners on addressing building restoration and bringing into use vacant and underused properties. This work will be undertaken in direct consultation with the Area Committee

Development of training opportunities that meets the needs of local businesses

Keighley College has opened on a new site at Bradford Road in September offering a wide range of vocational courses, some of which will meet the needs of local businesses. However further work needs to be done in the development of initiatives between businesses and educational establishments to encourage job creation and skill development.

Ensure local businesses are provided with advice and support.

Many local businesses are supported through a net work of partners, i.e. Kickstart, Business Link and Town Centre Management Association Keighley connections all of whom offer support and advice. Local businesses will be encouraged to play a more active role in developing and responding to Ward Plans.

Children & Young People Children and young people are our future and our greatest asset. The Ward has a growing young population which will challenge services to make sure they remain responsive and appropriate to the growing and changing needs of all young people including those more vulnerable groups who are at greater risk of social exclusion and educational failure.

Improve recreational opportunities for young people.

Elected Members for Central Ward have recognised the need for the development and improvement of recreational facilities and the health benefits they bring to the community. In light of this, Members have funded the development of a Volleyball pitch with Parks and Landscape department, refurbishing an adjacent park building with a new kitchen and toilets in Devonshire Park, new play and fitness equipment has been installed in Lund Park, as well as continuing to support local groups and volunteers.

Support for families.

A number of initiatives have been developed across the Ward to help support families, examples of which can be found at Low Fold Children’s Centre where numerous events have taken place with partners for families in the community to promote healthy living and community safety as well as a joint festive celebration of Eid and Christmas.

Eastwood Primary School in conjunction with Airedale PCT are developing new ways of working together in a new community facility within the school. The aim of this is to actively encouraging parents with children from the local community to prepare their children for entry in to the school and provide non partisan hub for the development of community activities.

Improved youth activities for young people.

A number of voluntary youth organisations have been set up in the Ward the aim of which is to help young people between the ages of 11 – 19 years. The organisations are made up of local residents interested in making a change to lives of young people through positive youth work.

The aim is to provide services for the most hard-to-reach young people, who are not accessing any provision in the area with the aim of supporting the learning and development of young people who are at risk of becoming NEET (not in education, employment or training).

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Concern over road safety

Following a number of concerns raised at Councillor Surgeries and Neighbourhood Forums, a 20 mile an hour zone has been established in Lawkholme around Eastwood School to reduce the risk of accidents in an area with high numbers of children.

Drug dealing and associated behaviour

Working with partners, priority areas have been identified and actions have been decided upon to help reduce the incidence of drug dealing in an area. This has lead to an increase in patrols by uniformed services, a request to residents via Neighbourhood Forums and Community Safety Events to report any issue or concerns they may have. Various neighbourhoods in the Ward have been visited by Neighbourhood Wardens and PCSO’s as part of a crime reduction campaign. In support of this ongoing initiative, a community drugs awareness campaign will be launched in the neighbourghood.

Youth Drinking and Anti- Social Behaviour

Keighley Town Centre has for a period of time attracted a small cohort of individuals who have congregated around the Bus Station sparodically causing anti–social behaviour often fuelled by alcohol. This, in turn, has raised complaints from visitors who feel intimidated by behaviour of this type. A partnership of Police, Youth Services, Town Centre Manager, Town Centre Association, Cleansing Departmentand Incommunities will develop a plan of action to ensure a reduction in anti social behaviour and create a more welcoming environment for visitors and locals alike.

Health and Well being for All

Improved access to local health care

Health care services for the area are provided by Keighley Health Centre located in Oakworth Road. A wide ranging consultation took place by the NHS to gauge public opinion on where the new centre should be situated and what NHS, social care and wellbeing services people would like to see provided. Following the consultation the decision was to build the new centre on existing site on Oakworth Road.

Access to local parks

The challenge for many is tio ensure residents are aware of facilities available and are comfortable in using the facilities. Neighbourhood Forums and leaflet drops have kept residents informed of activities and events being held, as well as encouraging residents to join friends of groups for parks across Central Ward.

Friends of Lund Park working with partners have established a “Tea in the Park” event, which takes place each year and have through funding from Ward Councillors installed new fitness equipment in the park suitable for all sections of the community, young and Report to the Keighley Area Committee

old, able and disabled. Recognising the need to make the park as welcoming as possible, local school children from 3 schools have planted 4000 bulbs with the help from Friends of Lund Park, Groundworks and Bradford Parks & Landscape Department and funding from Elected Members.

Friends of Cliffe Castle have been working closely with officers from Cliffe Castle Museum and have sourced funding to purchase and erect new directional sign posts for the park. Also, nature maps are in the process of being developed for the park to assist visitors in understanding the fauna and flora of the park.

Devonshire Park has recently had a fire damaged park building refurbished which will be used by the local community as a changing room for those playing sport in the park.

Tackling Issues of isolation and depression

One of the key areas of concern highlight for Central Ward is the issue of depression and mental health issues caused by isolation of women in the Asian Community. The newly developed facilities at Eastwood School and the joint working with Airedale PCT has encouraged mums with small children to access facilities and meet up with residents in a safe environment.

Central Ward is well served by Community Centres all of which run a number of community events encouraging women from the Asian Community to be involved in a safe place.

Low Fold Family Centre is located in the Ward, its main aim is to give support to families who may be experiencing family crisis or difficulties and support children from age of 0 to 11 years. Their work takes place with families at home and at the centre, also joint initiatives around community safety, healthy living, and the celebration of festivals with partners e.g. extended schools, children’s centres, volutary organisations local schools, and uniformed services take place on a regular basis which encourages the community to come along and be involved.

Improving the Environment

Both built and natural environments play an important role in how people feel about where they live, work and spend their leisure time. Keighley Central deserves an environment that will be valued by residents and visitors alike. A clean, high quality, safe local environment is integral to the Ward’s success. It will contribute to our sense of health and wellbeing, and the creation of strong, safe, and sustainable communities. Work will be done to create a clean, green and attractive visible environment within all of Keighley West’s Neighbourhoods.

Reducing the amount of littering and fly tipping

Local residents have raised concerns at Neighbourhood Forums, Councillor Surgeries and Consultation Events over the level of litter and fly tipping across several locations in the Ward. Partnership meetings have taken place with Police, Fire Service, registered Social Landlords, Cleansing Department and the Neighbourhood Service to plan Days of Action which involvce the Commuinity working along side the partners listed above. Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Reduce dog fouling in local parks, public spaces and footpaths Following increased concern being raised at Neighbourhood Forums, Councillor Surgeries and calls to BDirect, Neighbourhood Wardens for the area have monitored areas of concern and when the opportunity occurs, they have engaged with dog walkers and stressed the importance of clearing up after their pets. Discussions have taken place at Neighbourhood Forums stressing the need to be for dog owners to act in a responsible manner. A short film has been prepared and in the future will be shown to young children highlighting the risks of not clearing up after your pet. Increase in recycling and sustainable waste management It is clear from the number of complaints raised at Neighbourhood Forums regarding fly tipping and littering and uncertainty of how to dispose of bulky items that there is an opportunity to work with the community to reduce incidence of irresponsible dumping of waste. To combat the problem, Neighbourhood Wardens have spoken at Forums on numerous occasions highlighting the service Bradford Council has to offer and how residents can assume responsibility for disposing of waste correctly. Strong and Cohesive Communities People in strong and cohesive communities take pride in where they live and show respect for the people they live with. Keighley West ward is striving to be a place where people get on well together, where people value each other and where everyone has the opportunity to get involved in community life in a variety of ways. The Ward is rich in its diversity both in terms of landscape and people: from rural villages to urban housing estates, Keighley West Ward has it all. Similarly, the ward is home to a wide range of people from different cultures, backgrounds and experiences. The history and diversity mean that people often associate strongly with the place they live in rather than the Keighley Area as a whole. Improve Knowledge of local activities In order to develop a sense of community it is important that good quality information is made available in a timely manner to ensure that residents across the Ward are aware of activities in their community and are given an opportunity to become involve. A local newsletter has been prepared and delivered to all households giving a flavour of activities that have taken place in the area as a prelude to encouraging many more residents to become active citizens in their own communities. Development of a community voice Working with a wide range of agencies we will encourage all sections of the community to attend Parish and Town Councils meetings, Neighbourhood Forums and other Community Meetings to ensure their ideas issues and concerns are taken into account when decisions are being made which affect their lives. Raise awareness in the community that they are able to influence decision making at a local and district level. Neighbourhood Forums are well established in the Ward and afford an opportunity for the community to hear about what is happening in the area and express concerns they may have. It has also being realised that new opportunities will need to be developed and organised at a local level to encourage community participation, positive engagement with Report to the Keighley Area Committee

the aim of involving people directly in active democratic processes through by means of community and local network meetings.

Useful Links

City of Bradford Metropolitan District Council. www.bradford.gov.uk

Compiled by: Bernard Dunwoodie Ward Co-ordinator Keighley Area Co-ordinators Office

March 2011

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

KEIGHLEY EAST

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Ward Councillors

Cllr. Dorothy Clamp Cllr. Doreen Lee Cllr. Steve Pullen

The Bungalow 4 Southlands Road 2 Coles Way High Beck Park Keighley Riddlesden Ilkley Road BD20 5HD Keighley Riddlesden BD20 5DD Keighley BD20 5RE

Tel: 01535 603191 Tel: 01535 667772 Tel: 01535 214707

So if you are thinking of setting up a project or delivering a service in one of the Keighley Wards or Neighbourhoods, check out the Ward Plan and let your Councillors know about it.

You never know, you might just do yourself a favour.

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Partners operating in the Keighley East Ward

Project 6 Mike Cadger Drug and Alcohol Support Project 6, Temple Row. Domestic Violence Services Di Reed [email protected] Extended Schools Nazia Hussain Keighley First [email protected] Incommunities Michelle Cull [email protected] Bradford District Council Philip Brook Street Scene [email protected] Early Years and Childcare Amelia Bailey Services [email protected] Jobs @ Job Centre plus Keighley Worth House, Worth Way, Keighley, West Yorkshire BD21 5AG Bradford and Airedale Primary Collette Connolly Care Trust (CD Team) [email protected] Keighley Town Council The Clerk www.keighley.gov.uk Groundwork Jane Halladay Environmental Initiatives [email protected] Keighley and Ilkley Voluntary & Caroline Schwaller Community Action KIVCA [email protected] Youth Services Carole Bywater / Abina Dorgan-Smith [email protected] [email protected] Keighley Neighbourhood Insp Wayne Horner Policing Team [email protected] Keighley Fire Station Nigel Kirk [email protected]

Ian Watson Anti Social Behaviour Team [email protected]

CBMDC Countryside Service Danny Jackson [email protected] Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Keighley Localities Office Localities Area Manager Services for Children and 01535 618599 Young People. British Waterways Steve Higham British Waterways North West 01942 405700 Morton Village Society David Miller (Chairman), Tel 01274 569286 Hainworth Wood Community Angie Stack Centre 01535 602932 Long Lee Community Centre Desmond Jackson (Secretary) 01535 607234 Riddlesden War Memorial Scott Lane, Riddlesden Institute Keighley, BD20 5BU East Riddlesden Hall Cassandra Cowie [email protected] Keighley Volunteer Centre Gary Pedley www.keighleyvb.co.uk Strong Close 01535 605272 Children’s Centre Park Ranger Service Senior Park Ranger 01274 431000 Parking Services Parking Services Manager 01274 434300

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Ward and Neighbourhood Overviews

Keighley East is a diverse area, host to both industrial and residential areas on the outskirts of Keighley centre and extending out to moorland and villages to the north and east of the town. The ward encompasses three key neighbourhood areas: Riddlesden and East Morton (Sandbeds, Stockbridge), Worth Village (Long Lee, Thwaites Brow and Dalton Lane), and Hainworth and Parkwood. The neighbourhoods are distinct with varying characteristics but with a reasonably good geographic spread of resources in terms of community facilities. There is however stark contrast between the more affluent areas in the ward and ones that are identified as experiencing particularly high levels of disadvantage.

Riddlesden and East Morton

Identified as the communities that make up the settlements of East Morton and Riddlesden and including properties adjacent to Bradford Road and the Waterside Fold Development. There is a mix of housing in this neighbourhood ranging from new build detached properties to traditional terraced property of some years standing. The majority of property is owner occupied.

It covers a significant geographic area and has a semi-rural characteristic. In recent times it has suffered from the loss of some community facilities (notably the post office at East Morton) and residents are dependent on cars or limited public transport to access mainstream provision. In turn this can generate some problems as inconsiderate car parking/driving are regular features of concern expressed by local residents. The Leeds/Liverpool canal traverses through this area and is valued as a pleasant and valued amenity. Demographics suggest that Keighley East has a slightly higher percentage of residents over 65 years of age. Projections (from the 2001 Census) suggest a higher concentration in the Riddlesden area but recent housing developments may well have influenced this figure downwards.

Worth Village

The Worth Village comprises of the communities of Long Lee, Thwaites Brow, Stockbridge and Dalton Lane. In the immediate vicinity of the town centre it tends to towards a predominantly industrial/commercial character and is served well by it’s proximity to local amenities. A focus on regeneration has seen some recent developments most notably the relocation of the Keighley College campus which has resulted in significant improvements to the local landscape. Predominantly the area is owner occupied although there is some social housing provision. It ranges in character from Victorian terraced in high density areas to newer build property to the outskirts of the ward (Long Lee). To the outer reaches of the neighbourhood the environment is less built up but as a consequence more reliant on public transport or cars and less access to ‘local’ amenities.

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Hainworth and Parkwood

This neighbourhood is situated on the South Eastern edges of Keighley and comprises of a mix of Victorian stone built terraced houses, post war housing, multi storey, and newer homes, including a considerable percentage of social housing. A significant programme of housing redevelopment is underway to the Woodhouse estate, the first phase of which has seen residents occupying new family houses in autumn 2010.

In reasonable proximity to the town centre it is not overly well served by public transport and to the further reaches of the neighbourhood this can be problematic. There is little in the way of amenities within this area, with many people reliant on facilities within Keighley town centre, including shopping, leisure and social facilities.

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Current Issues and Opportunities

Issues have been identified and collated from a variety of sources over the past six months. Sources include recent Neighbourhood Forums and Police PACT (Partners and Communities Together) meetings. Information is received from Ward Councillors within their roles as community champions as well as key partners including the Health Service, Incommunities, and Town Council. Voluntary Sector, individuals, businesses and organisations who live and work in the Keighley East Ward. Additional community engagement takes place is a variety of ways, notably through the work and contact of the neighbourhood wardens, but also through ongoing and developing community engagement programme.

Riddlesden and East Morton

East Morton Institute has been the hub of village life since its conversion from the former British School in 1919.Significant refurbishment achieved with the support of district and town councillors plus considerable local effort has resulted in a comfortable, modern facility. Thanks to the commitment of a number of very active citizens it provides a packed programme of activities and variety of events.

Riddlesden War Memorial Institute has also benefited from investment with a building and access fit for purpose. Attention is now directed at the undeveloped land at the rear of the building which in partnership with British Waterways is being developed to provide a fishing platform suitable for use by disabled anglers. Ambitious long term plans include the development of the adjacent tennis courts to provide extended facilities for young people. The area has grown substantially in recent years, with several major housing developments, including 'Waterside Fold' which adjoins the Leeds and Liverpool Canal. A particular area of concern raised regularly at forums is the nuisance caused through inconsiderate dog owners allowing their pets to foul along the length of the canal side walkway.

Both areas have expressed concern about speeding traffic and inappropriate parking (especially around school times). Forums are well attended and residents are well motivated to support a wide range of community activities.

Worth Village

A large residential area Long Lee borders open countryside, there are a number of community activities at the local churches and the village has a community hall equipped to a modern standard and suitable for a variety of uses. Plans are underway to mobilise additional community use of this resource. The lack of facilities for young people has been noted at earlier forums – a successful programme now runs weekly. Incidence of anti social behaviour have been a cause for concern in the past but days of action and resident reassurance appear to have had a measure of success. This work will continue as long as there is a problem

The area extends down through Thwaites into Dalton Lane/Stockbridge – in part a well- established industrial area, giving way to a mixture of older residential housing. Report to the Keighley Area Committee

The proximity to town centre amenities is positive but the area has suffered in the past from a gradual deterioration of maintenance and the negative impacts of low level crime and other anti-social behaviour. The Airedale Partnership has been the lead in delivering a well attended business forum and the build of the new college site alongside other new development has been very positive. Residents have been fully involved in planning meetings and consulted extensively on resident only parking etc to accommodate change.

Residents have expressed concern about excessive traffic (and speed) and work is ongoing to address this. Days of action have taken place in Stockbridge and the lack of community facilities in the heart of both neighbourhoods demand a flexible approach to community engagement. ‘A road show event is planned for summer 2011 and communities further encouraged to developing activity in partnership with agencies operating in the locality.

Hainworth and Parkwood

Improvements to the housing stock have had a positive impact in Hainworth (Woodhouse) but incidents of anti-social behaviour remain a concern and the local community centre is central to providing help, advice and positive interactions with young people. It also provides a successful and well attended luncheon session DART – Dining and Recreational Tuesdays.

The opportunity to develop a local Neighbourhood Trust has recently been given support by local councillors and will be the focus of work throughout 2011.

Residents have expressed concern about speeding traffic – traffic calming measures are being currently being investigated and will be shared at the next neighbourhood forum.

Parkwood Rise (two 12 storey multi rise blocks) to the east of Hainworth has been the focus of intensive community engagement provided by Community Service for Volunteers (CSV). A twelve month programme was commissioned to help develop resident led activities but response remains disappointing. It remains an area of partnership focus and is about to undergo refurbishments to the stairwells and community space. It has a transient residency and a high number of un-let properties. Incidents of ASB are been dealt with promptly and forcefully by the InCommunities team and there is good productive partnership work between agencies including Project 6 and the PCT CD team. The surrounding area hosts older terraced property with some newer build, and includes Parkwood Youth Centre (which benefited from a £450,000 refit in 2010) which provides a high quality resource for young people. Parkwood School has recently benefited from an award of funds through Area Initiative Fund, to equip its parental resource room and will hopeful provide a basis for improved networking and community engagement.

It is an area of significant disadvantage, scoring below the district average in most of the domains.

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Ward Priorities & Responses

Prosperity and Regeneration

Economic success and physical regeneration are critical to the success of the communities we live in; a strong foundation provides the resources and places we need to achieve our other ambitions. Equipping people and communities with the skills, knowledge and ability to succeed at work is fundamental to improving everyone’s wellbeing, and to removing the barriers faced by people in more deprived communities. More jobs, growing businesses and increasing education and skills levels are seen as the most important improvements we could make. Develop and increase training opportunities appropriate to the demands of local business. Residents have reflected on the positive impact of apprenticeships and favour access to training that equips young people in particular with suitable skills for employment. The Keighley East ward is at or around the district average in terms of employment rates but has a lower rate of GCSE attainment and an upward trend in respect of NEET’s (not in employment,education or training). Leeds College (Keighley Campus) opened its new building Sept 2010 and provides a range of specialist facilities including industry standard workshops for Welding & Fabrication, Carpentry & Joinery, Painting & Decorating, Motor Vehicle, Electrical Installation, Plumbing & Gas safety, and Construction & Brickwork. The Airedale Partnership aims to ensure appropriate skills development and connect local people to economic opportunity. Transport: congestion, freight, public transport use, connectivity. Difficulties in respect of the reduction to public transport are perceived to have had an impact on the local economy. There has been an expressed concern about the congestion in the town and its immediate approaches. In part this is felt to impact on heavier (and speeding) traffic elsewhere in the ward. We will encourage, promote and protect the current level of public transpot. Accommodate business growth without adding to congestion (Airedale Partnership). Resident education – self help approaches (car schemes, access bus etc). Concerns of over development, lack of awareness on planning issues. Residents perceive big gaps in the existing local infrastructure and demands made by future housing developments. There is an opportunity to be better informed (Localities bill) and ensure improved understanding through improved community engagement and communication. Residents are interested in how the implementation of the section 106 will benefit the neighbourhood.

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Children and Young People

The Bradford district has a strategic vision for all young people this is linked to the Every Child Matters agenda and it aims to ensure that every child and young person has the best start in life and is supported towards achieving the five outcomes: Be healthy; Stay safe; Enjoy and achieve; Make a positive contribution; and Achieve economic wellbeing. Family support – access to advice, supporting parenting, pre school activities. Provision of mums and tots groups is widespread throughout the ward. The improvements to community resources have contributed to their sustainability, additional support is available through the work of Strong Close Children’s Centre and the extended school programme. New groups have supported through the Community Chest programme and offered advice through the Pre-School Learning Alliance. This work and support is ongoing. Provision of safe, accessible play areas. Young people have been involved in the design of newer build play facilities (Riddlesden, Hainworth Wood). Neighbourhoods are encouraged to provide the impetus to develop improved community facilities by working with agencies to attract external funds. The Playranger programme has responded to need and delivers a number of outdoor sessions in the ward. Ward Councillors have recently directed funding towards refurbishment of play areas in Long Lee. Communities will be encouraged to explore the possibilities of natural resources and the growth of interest in volunteering and active citizenship. Improved recreational opportunities and out of school activiies for young people. Community centres are encouraged to involve young people in the development of provision and the extended schools programme provides a varied programme of activities. Financial support has been given to uniformed youth services and the development of sporting/cultural activities will include a focus on young people.

Safer Communities

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Improved road safety – speeding and problem parking.

Community based Speed watches have been delivered across the ward and civil enforcement officers and neighbourhood wardens have been deployed to address issues of particular concern. Councillors have supported the purchase of data capturing devices along with mobile CCTV they will positioned in response to concern. Initiatives will continue in partnership with schools across the ward to educate and inform on responsible parking and road sfaety.

Youth disorder and anti social behaviour.

A targeted approach to specific incidents has been undertaken through a partnership approach. Test purchases have been made and stores prosecuted for incidents of under age sales of alcohol. Outreach work is undertaken by teams of youth workers, neighbourhood police teams and neighbourhood wardens. Residents are encouraged to report any incidents of concern to build up profiles and influence the deployment of resources. Work will continue to involve local people in the provision of creative diversionary activities for their own communities youth using locally available resources to supplement their dependence on external agencis

Fear of crime – low reporting rates.

Police and Community Together (PACT) meetings have been delivered successfully across most of the ward. Innovative approaches to promoting services will be undertaken through the summer of 2011 with presence of multi agency teams at galas and fundays. Reassurance mapping has taken place across Stockbridge, Parkwood and Long Lee and will remain a priority across the ward.

Health and Well Being for All

Promoting the health and well being of older people.

Older people across the ward value the benefit gained from the provision of activities and services available locally. Funding has been directed towards improvements to community facilities to support a range of provision. The ward has an higher than average elderly population and the importance of opportunities to socialise is recognised as a determinant of well being. Additional work will be done across the ward to link and promote services and explore opportunities for intergenerational work. An innovative programme to prevent falls ‘Sloppy Slippers’ is about to be piloted in the Hainworth area – joint work between PCT, KIVCA – funded by Ward Councilors.

Proximity to local healthcare and awareness of provision.

For some residents access to GP provision is a problem due to transport issues. Neighbourhood forums and community meetings have benefitted from consultation on the development of the new Health Centre planned for the area and recently on the work of the Trustees of the local NHS Hospital Trust. Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Encourage physical activity.

Residents are fortunate to enjoy access to open countryside and value the ‘green’ exercise potential afforded to them. Maintenance of footpaths (including work through the community service programme) walking for health and opportunities for more active participation will continue to be delivered.

Cross cutting issue linked to housing, environment, education and prosperity.

Improving the Environment

Built and natural environments play an important role in how people feel about where they live, work and spend their leisure time. Keighley East deserves an environment that will be valued by residents and visitors alike. A clean, high quality, safe local environment is integral to the Ward’s success. It will contribute to our sense of health and wellbeing, and the creation of strong, safe, and sustainable communities. Work will be done to create a clean, green and attractive visible environment within all of Keighley West’s Neighbourhoods.

Clean cared for, public and private spaces.

A clean and cared for local environment is a priority across neighbourhoods, with litter and fly tipping reported as concerns in some neighbourhoods. Prompt response and education through the involvement of the neighbourhood wardens is having an impact and partnership work with Street scene and Environmental Enforcement ensures a collective approach in problem areas. Initiatives such as Morton in Bloom – provide attractive gateways to the ward and town and will be replicated where possible.

Unacceptable levels of dog fouling.

A particular concern on the canal pathways, through a partnership approach with British waterways (complimenting work in the adjoining Bingley ward) this area will continue to be targeted to improve behaviours. An initiative run in association with Keep Britain Tidy saw a particular focus on at Marley Playing Field; this work will continue and be expanded through 2011 taking lessons learned from the Craven campaign currently underway.

Recycling, awareness raising and participation.

Residents are keen to recycle and awareness raising has been a feature of neighbourhood forums. Work will continue to develop appropriate recycling facilities and on resident education – particular responses involving young people will be explored with local schools.

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Stronger Communities

People in strong and cohesive communities take pride in where they live and show respect for the people they live with. Keighley West ward is striving to be a place where people get on well together, where people value each other and where everyone has the opportunity to get involved in community life in a variety of ways. The Ward is rich in its diversity both in terms of landscape and people: from rural villages to urban housing estates, Keighley West Ward has it all. Similarly, the ward is home to a wide range of people from different cultures, backgrounds and experiences. The history and diversity mean that people often associate strongly with the place they live in rather than the Keighley Area as a whole.

Increase local community involvement and awareness of activity.

Attempts will continue to create and maintain the conditions that facilitate and support community groups and self help initiatives to succeed. The use of a community development approach to build resident engagement has had particular success in some parts of the ward. It will be further developed through a proposal for a Neighbourhood Development Trust across the neighbourhoods of Long Lee/Hainworth and Parkwood.

Value and promote community life.

Shared interest through sport, the arts and cultural activity builds community pride and cohesion and opportunities to build on existing good practise will continue to be promoted. 2011 is the 50th anniversary of East Morton gala and community events of this nature will be further explored and encouraged across the ward.

Active Citizenship.

Improved community led activity and opportunities to learn by doing will be promoted through the Year of Active Citizenship. Opportunities for volunteering and developing culture and sport activities will be positively encouraged and supported and examples of good practise shared and celebrated across the ward.

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Useful Links

City of Bradford Metropolitan District Council. www.bradford.gov.uk

Compiled by: Sue Gledhill Area Development Officer Keighley Area Co-ordinators Office

March 2011

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

KEIGHLEY WEST

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Ward Councillors

Cllr. Sandra Haigh Cllr. Robert Payne Cllr. Keith Dredge

35, West Lane c/o City Hall 5, Diamond Street Haworth Bradford Keighley Keighley BD1 1HY BD21 2DB

Tel: 01535 647149 Tel: 07795 665615 Tel: 07592 046792

So if you are thinking of setting up a project or delivering a service in one of the Keighley Wards or Neighbourhoods, check out the Ward Plan and let your Councillors know about it.

You never know, you might just do yourself a favour.

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Partners Operating in the Keighley West Ward

Project 6 Mike Cadger Drug and Alcohol Support Project 6, Temple Row. Domestic Violence Services Di Reed [email protected] Extended Schools Worth Valley Ginny Mansouri, Oakbank School 01535 210111 Incommunities Michelle Cull [email protected] Bradford District Council Philip Brook Street Scene [email protected]

Together Women Project Sarah Whitaker Support for women Offenders [email protected]

Early Years and Childcare Amelia Bailey Services [email protected] Jobs @ Job Centre plus Keighley Worth House, Worth Way, Keighley, West Yorkshire BD21 5AG Worth Valley 1st Responders Team Co-ordinator Volunteer Emergency 07970 459638 Response Bradford and Airedale Primary Mohammed Sharif Care Trust [email protected] Keighley Town Council The Clerk www.keighley.gov.uk Groundwork Jane Halladay Environmental Initiatives [email protected]

Keighley and Ilkey voluntary Caroline Schwaller Services [email protected] Youth Services Carole Bywater [email protected] Keighley Neighbourhood Insp Wayne Horner Policing Team [email protected] Bracken Bank Community The Chair Association 01535 667221 Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Keighley Fire Station Nigel Kirk [email protected] Ian Watson Anti Social Behaviour Team [email protected]

Oakworth Juniors Foot ball www.oakworthjuniors.co.uk Club [email protected]

Keighley Localities Office Localities Area Manager Services for Children and 01535 618599 Young People. Braithwaite Peoples The Chair Association 01535 610200 Braithwaite and Guardhouse The Chair Community Association 01535 665935 Laycock Village Hall The Chair 01535 667908 Rainbow Children’s Centre The Centre Manager 01535 604 687 www.rainbow.childrencentre.org.uk Lowfold Children and Family The Manager Centre 01535 618300 www.lowfoldchildrenandfamilycentre.org.uk Countryside and Rights of Way Countryside Officer Service 01274 435682 Environmental Health BDirect Customer Services Bradford Council 01274 431000 Dog Warden Service BDirect Customer Services Bradford Council 01274 431000 Parks and Landscapes, Parks and Landscapes Manager Keighley 01535 618068 Park Ranger Service Senior Park Ranger 01274 431000 Parking Services Parking Services Manager 01274 434300 Airedale Partnership www.airedalepartnership.org.uk Keighley Volunteer Centre Gary Pedley www.keighleyvb.co.uk Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Ward and Neighbourhood Overviews

Keighley West Ward is made up of three neighbourhood action planning areas, these are Bracken Bank and Ingrow, Fell Lane and Exely Head, as well as Braithwaite, Guard House and Laycock. Each Neighbourhood is distinct with its own unique characteristics and attributes. There is a perception of two contrasting localities with rural and urban characteristics. The Ward is bordered by Keighley Central Ward on the East and Worth Valley Ward towards the North.

Bracken Bank and Ingrow

Bracken Bank and Ingrow neighbourhood has a combination of historic and older settlements around the village of Ingrow, as well as newer developments of Bracken Bank and Broomhill. The neighbourhood is served well by a regular bus service and good links into Keighley Town centre and beyond. The neighbourhood shares boundaries with Keighley Central and the Worth Valley Wards.

Population breakdown is statistically on par with the district average, there are however concentrations of specific demographic groups in certain areas of the neighbourhood. Housing style and tenure varies across the neighbourhood area, Bracken Bank estate has a mixed tenure split equally between Incommunities (Registered Social Landlord) and privately owned dwellings. Ingrow village comprises of small Victorian terraced cottages, there is a high concentration of tenants in privately owned properties.

Fell lane and Exely Head

The Fell Lane and Exely Head neighbourhood rises up from Keighley Town centre along the line of Oakworth Road, heading steeply up the valley towards Oakworth and Haworth. It is based around two small historical settlements on lower Fell Lane and Exley Head and now consists of many suburban commuter belt areas.

The area has grown over the past 40 years, seeing much family-owned farming land converted to prime residential developments. Housing in the area is mixed, consisting of terraced properties in the older parts of the neighbourhood and small semi-detached townhouses in the more recently developed areas. There are also small pockets of registered social landlord properties, which are well established in the neighbourhood.

Braithwaite, Guardhouse and Laycock.

The Braithwaite, Guardhouse and Laycock neighbourhood has historically developed from a farming community in Laycock and Braithwaite village. The original settlements are now supplemented by one of Keighley’s largest social housing areas, the Braithwaite and Guardhouse estates.

The neighbourhood is set on the side of the hill, starting from Laycock and coming down the valley through Braithwaite and Guardhouse, almost into the valley bottom and Keighley town centre.

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Current Issues and Opportunities

What follows are the stories of how we obtained some of that information thorough a programme of community engagement.

Bracken Bank and Ingrow

Local young people attended a lively day time neighbourhood forum meeting defending the skate park and its legitimate users. Keighley Town Council representatives offered their full support to the development of a robust programme of activities for young people at the site, Young people wanted support in delivering some of their ideas, including the development of professional inline skating workshops, and the idea was welcomed by all.

The Connecting Communities project has been praised by Keighley Police and neighbourhood wardens for reaching out and engaging with local frontline workers, key relationships have been established between young people, PCSO’s, neighbourhood wardens and other local workers.

Bracken Bank Community Association have been inviting interest from local active citizens interested in joining the committee to take forward the development and running of the Sue Belcher Community centre, as well as having a pivotal role in the development of local community development initiatives.

School parking outside Worth Valley Primary School has been raised as a concern by local residents, parents and the new Head Teacher of the School, a suggestion to create a one way loop on Bracken Bank Crescent was put forward as a possible solution; the idea would be considered by highways officers before the next forum.

Fell Lane and Exely Head

Residents of Occupation lane and Camborne Way continue to campaign for a resolution on the use of Occupation Lane, discussions are ongoing with the Countryside service, Highways and Traffic North and Ward Members.

A multi agency partnership day of action and reassurance took place on the Litton and Salisbury Road areas off Fell Lane, local housing associations met with cleansing, Police and Neighbourhood service staff to talk to local residents, feedback was very positive and residents commented that it was very reassuring to see so many people. Key issues raised included possible improvements to Litton Road to deter speeding drivers, as well as the establishment of a residents group. A further day of action was held around Nessfield School to gage residents’ views and to increase satisfaction and reassurance in service Report to the Keighley Area Committee

providers; a key issue that needed to be addressed was the inappropriate parking around Nessfield School at drop off and pick up times.

Braithwaite and Guardhouse and Laycock

A proposed Housing Scheme in the Braithwaite, Laycock and Guard House neighbourhood needs to be appropriate and sustainable this was the feedback from residents and community representatives at a recent neighbourhood forum.

Local residents feel they have a lack of knowledge about planning processes. A very lively neighbourhood forum picked up this issue and with the support of Ward Councillors the planning process was described and residents were advised how best to proceed with the issues this included the best use of any section 106 payments that may be levied on any large housing schemes.

As a follow on from this debate, Ward and Town Councillors agreed to communicate regularly on future issues of common concern.

Laycock residents after many years of lobbying were pleased to hear that a new traffic scheme on Back Lane was being funded through Area committee funding, the scheme is designed to deter large vehicles accessing Back Lane and causing an obstruction further down the Lane.

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Ward Priorities and Responses

Prosperity and Regeneration

To develop appropriate training opportunities catered for the needs and interests of local people.

The Connecting Communities programme has initiated a confidence building programme to engage with local young people in the ward. Local people are involved in gardening activities in their neighbourhood and this had led to investigations into developing a social enterprise linked to gardening and other odd job enterprises.

The scheme is specifically targeting local young people not in education training or employment and has had success in encouraging users to progress further into employment or into available training. . Fell Lane and Exely Head residents have prioritised increasing safety measures on Oakworth Road.

Oakworth Road is a long and in places wide stretch of road that starts from Keighley Town centre toward Oakworth Village, residents who live along this corridor feel its layout encourages motorists to increase speed and the detriment of pedestrians. Various highways schemes have been implemented including highly visible white lining, radar speed checks and high visibility speed warning signs, the latest intervention has been the introduction of speed cameras along its route from the Fell Lane Junction to Oakbank School. This development is relatively new and it remains to be seen if it has an impact on resident’s perceptions. Concerns of over development and lack of awareness and openness about the planning process. The involvement of local decision makers and those who influence policy needs to be open and transparent to local people. Residents need greater knowledge about how to influence, input and engage with the decision making processes and clearer access to who makes the decisions. Residents perceive big gaps in the existing local infrastructure and demands made by future housing developments. There is an opportunity to be better informed (Localities bill) and ensure improved understanding through increased community engagement and communication. Residents are interested about the implementation of the section 106 benefit.

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Children and Young People

The Bradford District has a strategic vision for all young people this is linked to the Every Child Matters agenda and it aims to ensure that every child and young person has the best start in life and is supported towards achieving the five outcomes: Be healthy; Stay safe; Enjoy and achieve; Make a positive contribution; and Achieve economic wellbeing.

Children and young people want to become involved in local decision making but are not actively engaged in determining local priorities.

This issue is the collective responsibility of all those who are making decisions impacting on the lives of Keighley West Wards young people, to address this issue a programme of work has been established that will engage with young people about wider community issues and the impact this has on people’s lives. It is also imperative that service providers include and positively encourage work with young people as part of a standardisation of their daily work.

A recent Neighbourhood forum showed how successful working with young people can bring about a difference in the way people in positions of authority are perceived, local young people turned out in force to counteract issues of anti social behaviour at a local skate park, contrary to some opinions anti social behaviour was not caused by legitimate users of the facility but by others who saw it as a social gathering point, an agreed way forward involving local police, schools and community associations has since been developed.

Support for young and single mothers in some specific areas of West ward have been seen as a priority.

This priority has been identified by users as well as providers of targeted services, increased support to community venues has already taken place, Bracken Bank Community Association has been financially supported to extend provision. Further engagement needs to take place between statutory and community sector providers of services. Productive conversations between the Rainbow and Lowfold Children’s Centres and the various community associations in West Ward are planned once a restructure in children’s services has been completed.

Tackling misconceptions that exist between different generations.

This is a key priority across the Ward; local inter-generational programmes have been established in locations throughout the ward, specific events around Christmas and New Year have been established, and young people have been instrumental in Bracken Bank during bad weather periods getting the neighbourhood cleared and moving again. A programme of small low key activities has been designed to slowly engender into local Report to the Keighley Area Committee

people positive portrayals of young people, young people are volunteering in community settings and links have been established with older peoples groups and youth groups to establish closer working relationships, this has been done with support from Incommunities, Keighley West Neighbourhood policing Teams, community and voluntary associations and the Neighbourhood Wardens.

Safer Communities

Fear of crime and low reporting of crime.

Keighley West ward has a very successful partnership approach to tackling crime and anti social behaviour; however evidence suggests that residents still feel under confident in reporting crime and perceive crime levels in their neighbourhood to be higher than is the case. To tackle this, a partnership approach has been adopted to increase awareness and confidence with local residents. A drive to encourage to residents to report crime has been complemented by a commitment to feedback on any arrests or activity in the neighbourhood. Targeted high visibility reassurance patrols involving all partners working in a particular area have proved very successful and these will be repeated on a rolling local basis this will be in addition to the regular uniformed patrols.

Youth Drinking and Anti- Social Behaviour

The Ingrow skate park has been attracting many young people on a Friday and Saturday night, a partnership group consisting of the Police, local schools, NHS and drug and alcohol agencies and the Youth Service has been established to look at tackling the issue comprehensively. An information evening has been organised to make parents and children aware of the consequences of their actions. Other planned work as part of the project includes a clamp down on proxy sales involving local outlets and supermarkets and greater involvement with schools in the development and planning of induction and transfers from Primary to High school.

Empty properties being targeted by criminals

This is a particular problem in the Braithwaite neighbourhood and is associated with Incommunities properties. Incommunities in consultation with local community associations and residents groups and the Neighbourhood Policing Teams have made it a priority to secure empty properties, and where appropriate to clear and allocate tenants as quickly as possible. Residents groups, Keighley West neighbourhood policing team and the Neighbourhood Wardens have been proactive in working jointly with the named housing officer to communicate more effectively and regularly about issues of common concern.

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Neighbourhood forum feedback seems to indicate that the approach is working and resident’s perceptions are improving and a clear communication process is the way forward.

Health and Well being for all

In Keighley West Health and Well being is seen as improving and impacting holistically on the influences on people’s lives and not seeing each issue in isolation.

Addressing specific needs of an increasing older population in the Ward

A national, district and local trend, the population of older and retired people in the ward is increasing. The age range for older people varies from the age fifty upward, correspondingly serving a population where the age difference from the youngest to the oldest could be upwards of forty years is a challenge.

By engaging with colleagues from the Health Service and adult services a dynamic approach geared to what older people want and not what is presumed they need is planned. The Keighley West Ward has distinct areas where older people live and these neighbourhoods are growing, by including local community workers and social service officers, a locally derived programme of activities, information and contact points is needed.

Increasing access to sporting and well being activities.

Often the steps to a healthier lifestyle need to made easier for people who are not used to taking part in sport and fitness activities, but correspondingly it is these individuals and communities that need the most support, and have the most health needs, taking this into account local groups and community centres have been encouraged and supported through ward based funding to develop localised easy access health and exercise sessions, a programme of varied and innovative physical and mental health sessions have been supported.

Access to parks and countryside.

Keighley West is surrounded by some of the most celebrated natural countryside in the Region, but local people feel they have no access to it, with this in mind groups have been actively supported to visit local points of interest and community activists have been asked to make it part of their engagement programme to link with local organisations that will help in doing this.

Young peoples groups in the Ward have been supported by ward funding in order to broaden their horizons by giving them the opportunity to experience activities they may never normally take part in, this has in turn led to young people gaining confidence in seeking other locally based activities that they could formally take part in.

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Improving the Environment

Built and natural environments play an important role in how people feel about where they live, work and spend their leisure time. Keighley West deserves an environment that will be valued by residents and visitors alike. A clean, high quality, safe local environment is integral to the Ward’s success. It will contribute to our sense of health and wellbeing, and the creation of strong, safe, and sustainable communities. Work will be done to create a clean, green and attractive visible environment within all of Keighley West’s Neighbourhoods.

Maintenance issues of footbaths and bridleways

Keighley West ward is covered by historic footpaths and bridleways, some are used on a daily basis by local people, while others are less well used and have fallen into a state of disrepair, and issues around their appearance and safety have arisen. By working with the country side and rights of way service, Highways and West Yorkshire Probation Service, more and more lost and unused footpaths are coming back into use, but constant work is needed to keep up with growing maintenance issues.

Reduction in littering around Schools and Shops

A progressive anti littering campaign has been developed to tackle reports of littering around schools and retail outlets. Neighbourhood Wardens are in regular communication with school grounds man and caretakers, as well as teaching staff to maintain a constant level of communication with students about the anti social nature of littering and educational visits have proved very successful.

Schools are working very hard to educate their students and often schools with the support of Cleansing Services have organised litters patrols with young people.

Local shops and retailers know about their responsibilities around littering and storage of waste, if it appears that they are not taking their responsibilities seriously Neighbourhood Warden and Environmental Health officers can help change their behaviour through persuasion and enforcement.

Improving unkempt areas of land

Often small pockets of land that are not maintained and looked after attract further problems, by addressing this issue local groups have been supported in small and sometimes in substantial ways, often these types of land do not have any obvious owners and in the smallest of interventions residents have been helped to identify who the owner is, once this is done contact can be made and land can be improved either by the land owner or with permission by local residents.

Residents living on Valley View Close were increasingly frustrated by anti social behaviour concentrated on the old turning circle that once belonged to the now demolished Bronte School, with help and partnership work a short term solution was agreed, which immediately stopped cars parking up late at night and causing a disturbance. Further funding has now enabled some low key landscaping and additional features such as trees Report to the Keighley Area Committee

and benches to be added, this has made the area into somewhere local residents can use and enjoy and will continue to be developed as a valuable urban green space.

Strong and Cohesive Communities

Improving community and civic responsibilities of those who live and work in the Ward

A history of positive relationships between agencies, a record of good partnership work, and a productive voluntary and community sector provide the ingredients for an effective approach to building ‘stronger communities’ in the Keighley West Ward. The opportunities to work together productively to develop and maintain the conditions that encourage strong, resilient and cohesive communities need to be encouraged and created. Collectively we must aim to encourage positive relationships between people of all ages and backgrounds and to build the capacity of communities to act on their own needs, ideas, concerns and aspirations.

In promoting the importance of equal life chances and fair access to services, it is recognised that, for a variety of reasons, people can feel socially excluded or isolated. Active Citizens in Keighley West need to be promoted as ‘access points’ to being involved, some problems are seen as not only an issue about the location and physical space, but also about communication, culture and how things are done, to enable everyone to understand and contribute as much as possible to a happy, vibrant and successful communities.

Working collaboratively with our partners including local residents we need to explore ways to work on community initiatives and events that encourage people to work together. Ultimately to strengthen civic engagement, encourage civil renewal, and influence the delivery of services

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Useful Links

City of Bradford Metropolitan District Council. www.bradford.gov.uk

Compiled by: Noreen Akhtar Ward Co-ordinator Keighley Area Co-ordinators Office

March 2011 Report to the Keighley Area Committee

WORTH VALLEY

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Ward Councillors

Cllr. Peter Hill Cllr. Russell Brown Cllr. Glen Miller

22, Mytholmes Lane 1 New Street 51, The Chase Haworth Oakworth Shann Park Keighley Keighley Keighley BD22 8EZ BD22 7RR BD20 6HU

Tel: 01274 432079 Tel: 01535 210108 Tel: 07971 274814

So if you are thinking of setting up a project or delivering a service in one of the Keighley Wards or Neighbourhoods, check out the Ward Plan and let your Councillors know about it.

You never know, you might just do yourself a favour.

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Partners Operating in the Keighley Worth Valley Ward

Together Women Project Sarah Whitaker Support for women Offenders [email protected]

Early Years and Childcare Amelia Bailey Services [email protected] Jobs @ Job Centre plus Keighley Worth House, Worth Way, Keighley, West Yorkshire BD21 5AG Worth Valley 1st Responders Team Co-ordinator Volunteer Emergency 07970 459638 Response Bradford and Airedale Primary Sharif Mohammed Care Trust Sharif. [email protected] Keighley Town Council The Clerk www.keighley.gov.uk Groundwork Jane Halladay Environmental Initiatives [email protected]

Keighley and Ilkey voluntary Caroline Schwaller Services [email protected] Youth Services Carole Bywater [email protected] Worth Valley Neighbourhood Insp Andy Croasdale Policing Team [email protected] Haworth, Cross Roads and The Clerk Stanbury Parish Council http://www.haworthparishcouncil.gov.uk/ Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Anti Social Behaviour Team Ian Watson [email protected]

Oakworth Juniors Foot ball www.oakworthjuniors.co.uk Club [email protected]

Keighley Localities Office Localities Area Manager Services for Children and 01535 618599 Young People. Oakworth Contact Point Margaret Smith [email protected]

Oakworth Village Society The Secretary, Janet Armstrong. www.oakworthvillage.com Friends Of Holden Park Jacqueline Mc Ginnis [email protected] Worth Valley Neighbourhood Insp Andy Croasdale Policing Team [email protected] Haworth Village Association Robin Jackson [email protected] Haworth Village Trust Nigel Ward (chair) [email protected] Worth Valley Police and Margaret Smith Community Contact Point and 01535 644001 Oakworth Contact Point [email protected] Dog Warden Service BDirect Customer Services Bradford Council 01274 431000 Parks and Landscapes, Parks and Landscapes Manager Keighley 01535 618068 Park Ranger Service Senior Park Ranger 01274 431000 Parking Services Parking Services Manager 01274 434300 Oakworth Forward (Including Martin Walker (Chair) constituent members) www.oakworthvillage.com Oxenhope Parish Council Elaine Pearson - Clerk [email protected] Airedale Partnership www.airedalepartnership.org Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Ward and Neighbourhood Overviews

Keighley Worth Valley Ward is made up of three distinct neighbourhood action planning area’s, these are the villages of Oakworth, the Haworth, Cross Roads and Stanbury Parish Council area, and the Oxenhope Parish Council area. Each Village is distinct with its own unique characteristics and attributes.

Oakworth

Oakworth has a picturesque rural location, sitting between Haworth and Keighley on the southern slopes of the Worth Valley and surrounded by land used primarily for rearing cattle and sheep. It is well-known as a stop on the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway and the location of the film The Railway Children. The centre of the Village is a designated conservation area.

Oakworth is well served by public transport, with a regular bus service to Keighley running from early morning to late at night; its residents predominately travel outside the village to work, though some are employed locally in locations such as the numerous shops and primary school. Centrally lies Holden Park, this sits in the former grounds of Oakworth Hall, historically a popular attraction for Victorians but largely destroyed by fire in the early 20th century so that only the portico remains.

The Oakworth Neighbourhood comprises of mixed historical dwellings as well as newer housing developments. The village has a very active third sector with a variety of community and voluntary sector groups. Oakworth residents have a desire to sustain the Village identity.

Haworth, Cross Roads and Stanbury

Haworth sits on the edge of the Pennine moors, four miles south-east of Keighley and ten miles from Bradford. Originally an agricultural village, it grew over time through quarrying and the textile industry and now enjoys a role as a tourist destination. Its popularity is owed mainly to links with the famous Victorian authors Charlotte, Emily and Anne Brontë, whose former home is preserved as a museum and opens year-round. Haworth’s train station, which is part of the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway, also serves to attract visitors.

Cross Roads with Lees sits on the east of the Parish, this is an ancient village which sits astride the main route in an out of the Valley. The village is a mix of old and new residential developments, the village is served well with transport links and has an active retail sector, split by the busy A629 crossroads it is often confused as being part of Haworth or Keighley, but residents of Cross Roads with Lees are keen to assert the villages’ own identity.

Stanbury is a small village situated on a road to the west of Haworth linking the Valley to Laneshawbridge and Lanacashire. Stanbury is a working farming village but a significant number of residents also commute outside of the village to work. Stanbury no longer has any retail facilities, but has three public houses and a busy primary school attracting children from far and wide. Public transport links are well supported into Haworth and then beyond. Villagers use Haworth for access to medical and retail services. Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Oxenhope Oxenhope it lies in a north-facing position in the Pennine valley. Oxenhope has had its own Parish Council since 1987. Oxenhope railway station is the terminus for the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway. The modern village of Oxenhope is linear in design and encompasses what were originally separate settlements of Uppertown, Lowertown, Leeming and Hawkingstone. The historic hamlets of Marsh and Shaw are also included in modern day Oxenhope. The area became known as Oxenhope because this was the name the railway company gave the station serving the area when the line from Keighley opened in 1867. Until then the name Oxenhope referred to a small settlement between the hamlet of Marsh and the village of Haworth,

Tourism has not affected Oxenhope to the scale of neighbouring Haworth; the village retains much of the atmosphere and appearance to reflect its nineteenth century industrial origins. It still looks like a working village, rather than a dormitory or a weekend resort, though the amount of employment remaining in the immediate vicinity is now negligible, and mill sites are being converted for residential development for people wishing to experience rural life.

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Current Issues and Opportunities

What follows are the stories of how we obtained some of that information thorough a programme of community engagement.

Oakworth Village

Issues of school parking emerged as a concern for forum attendees, it was acknowledged that the location of Oakworth Primary school in the centre of the village created a great deal of stress on the traffic system in the village at crucial times of the day. The chair of Governors from the school acknowledged that it was an issue but also said the school and its local partners had been working hard over a number of years to persuade parents to think twice about using the car to drop students off. Cars parked in an obstructive manner on Victoria Road were ticketed as part of an enforcement initiative by Worth Valley Police, this was in response to residents complaining about blocked footpaths. However confusion over what was obstruction led to multi agency site visit to the area to see first hand the problem residents had, this proved very beneficial and local police teams had been made aware of the issue and a pragmatic approach to enforcement would be adopted.

Oakworth Village society and Oakworth Forward discussed the future of Holden Hall as interest had been generated over plans to move the responsibility of running the Hall from its current statutory owners into community management, following local community pressure the decision was reversed. It is however important to capitalise on the community interest generated by the issue to engage with local people who would normally not be part of community activities.

Haworth, Cross Roads and Stanbury

Issues of anti social behaviour in Cross Roads Park led to public a meeting being organised by the Parish Council and the Police, although activities of the individuals were not of a serious criminal nature, local people were very worried and wanted to take action against the instigators. Following the meeting, residents came forward with information which has since led to action being taken by the police against specific local individuals.

The Haworth Cobbles are now being restored with additional street improvement also taking place, an opportunity to engage with local stakeholders about proposed additional plans was missed, this may be an opportunity in the future for planners to consult before works are started to restrict any community criticism.

A pilot youth club has been launched by the Parish Council with support from Youth services and Keighley Area Committee, the opportunity to increase provision for local people is immense, this would have a knock on effect on issues of young people Report to the Keighley Area Committee

congregating in the park and outside retail premises on a Friday and Saturday night, it is too soon to say if this has had an impact on anti social behaviour.

Oxenhope

The Parish Council meeting was attended by local residents and partners , discussions centred on ongoing developments of the recreation site and increased lighting to enable greater out of hours usage.

The Village hall had been successful in securing funding from the Area Committee for urgent roof repairs and redecoration, the option of using Community Service volunteers was considered and contact details were exchanged.

The redevelopment of the multi-use recreation area is ongoing, funding from various sources had been gained, next steps were to improve after dark lighting and possibly look at further fundraising to improve play provision for older children.

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Ward Priorities and Responses

Prosperity and Regeneration

Develop a ‘Buy Local’ Campaign

Local producers and customers often feel out of sync and unable to compete with the large retail outlets who offer convenience and cheap produce all under one roof. The Worth Valley ward is made up of small villages where local shops and services are slowly being closed down.

In partnership with the Worth Valley young farmers and local Town and Parish Councils a buy local campaign is being designed to encourage local producers, retailers and ultimately consumers to support the local economy, regular feedback from residents highlights the need for good, convenient local business but residents need to be encouraged to support local business.

In the first step towards this, a programme of ‘gate to plate’ initiatives incorporating the origins of food and its final destinations has been developed, aimed primarily at schools in the area it will involve local producers and farmers, the initiative will be led by Worth Valley Young Farmers.

Investigate the issues hauliers using the main arterial route through the Parish of Haworth Cross Roads and Stanbury.

This issue was championed by the Haworth Cross Roads and Stanbury Parish Council, the use of the A629 by large haulage vehicles has over the time increased, this issue has been raised by residents living along the route from Cross Roads to Oxenhope and Stanbury at the edge of the Ward.

An initial discussion with Highways to restrict the weight limit within the boundary of the Parishes of Haworth and Oxenhope has met with some problems, due to the large number of secondary routes into the parishes it would be impractical and financially restrictive to adopt a weight limit, further solutions are being sought including an audit of the main companies using the route, this would enable the Parish Councils to approach the main users and open a dialogue.

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Support Local businesses to flourish and innovate.

The Worth Valley is home to a wide variety of shops and businesses; some are long and established in their communities whilst others are new. There is also recognition that there are many invisible businesses that are not immediately recognisable and these also may need additional support and guidance.

A specialist business rural business coach has been supported by BizzFizz to support existing and new entrepreneurs, the Airedale Partnership also has a specialist rural brief to support economic growth and to attract external funding into the rural Areas of the District.

This work is supplemented and supported by local business and economic networks in the Worth Valley, theses are made of like minded individuals exchanging ideas and links.

Children and Young People

Children and young people are our future and our greatest asset. The Ward has a thriving young population which will challenge services to make sure they remain responsive and appropriate to the growing and changing needs of all young people including those more vulnerable groups who are at greater risk of social exclusion and educational failure.

To support school holiday provision.

A successful joint project between Haworth and Oxenhope Parish Councils helped the long summer holiday seem quicker and more enjoyable. The sessions were organised and run by volunteers with support from Youth Services and other partners.

The Parish Councils jointly contributed to funds as well as attracting external funding, sessions were split between the locations of Haworth and Oxenhope, but attendees would use both locations.

Support Safe Independent Youth Provision

It has been acknowledged that a reliance and an expectation by residents and partners for Youth Services to provide services to young people has outstripped current provision, communication and closer working links between local groups has led to Youth Services supporting independent provision in local communities, if local people are raising this as an issue, local people must also be encouraged to get involved in designing a programme for their own young people.

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Greater support and recognition for volunteer run youth provision, in particular uniformed youth groups.

Volunteer run community provision has been the back bone of the neighbourhoods and villages of the Worth Valley. Uniformed youth groups in the Worth Valley have a long and established history. Uniformed groups offer a service to the very young child and can potentially stay with that child in to adulthood, the groups offer support and experiences that can result in changing lives.

Groups are still growing and demand is high, a new group has recently been established in Cross Roads, Scouting and guiding offers volunteers and group leaders a national and regional resource which serves as an intrinsic support network.

Keighley Area committee has recognised the value of uniformed youth groups who have tirelessly developed without need for paid workers and excessive funds. Groups in the Worth Valley recently benefitted from a funding stream that enabled them to replenish equipment and resources, benefitting many groups.

Safer Communities

To tackle the problem of Young people congregating in local parks

This has been generational issue for a number of years; the problem is seasonal and peaks in the summer months. The issue has been tackled by a multi agency partnership looking at anti social behaviour and the effects on local residents, the group will also look at the health and well being implications for young people themselves who are often involved in underage drinking and can be influenced into experimenting with other intoxicants.

The initial focus of the group has now changed and has expanded to look at the related issue of proxy alcohol sales, plans are also being progressed to work closely with feeder primary and schools to have a greater partnership input in the transition between primary and secondary schools, this problem is not isolated to the Worth Valley and joint working between Keighley West Ward has been crucial to developing a holistic problem solving process.

Young people were known to congregate in large numbers, and were a long distance away from their own neighbourhood, support for local groups has led to young people being attracted to stay in their own neighbourhoods in smaller numbers, this has resulted Report to the Keighley Area Committee

in groups of young people being able to stay away from specific areas and has led to lower levels of antisocial behaviour, less calls for service and has lower the number of complaints. Parents are also being informed of the activities of their children; they are often unaware of where their children are and are unaware of the issue that are caused.

Develop a ‘Farm Watch’ Network across the Ward.

The Worth Valley covers a large geographical area, historically a farming and agricultural area, in recent times many farmers have ceased operating, but there are a significant number that still operate in the worth valley. The issue of agricultural crime although small in occurrence can have a detrimental effect to affected businesses and local communities.

A farm watch scheme has been established led by Bingley and Worth Valley Neighbourhood Policing Team, with partnership support from Keighley Town Council, Haworth, Cross Roads and Stanbury Parish Council. The scheme aims to raise awareness amongst the farming community, increase communication and networking so that information is more freely passed between farms and the police.

Health and Well being for all

In Keighley Worth Valley Ward Health and Well being is seen as improving and impacting holistically the influences on people’s lives and not seeing each issue in isolation.

Recognising the Ward has a growing Older population and to promote proactive opportunities for maintaining good healthy and lifestyles

A national, district and local trend, the population of older and retired people in the ward is increasing. The age range for older people is varies from the age fifty upward, correspondingly serving a population where the age difference from the youngest to the oldest could be upwards of forty years is a challenge.

By engaging with colleagues from the Health Service and adult services a dynamic approach geared to what older people want and not what is presumed they need is planned. By including local community workers and social service officers, a locally derived programme of activities, information and contact points is needed.

The Keighley Worth Valley has existing provision for older people who are mobile and are able to travel independently to groups and activities, social services supports financially local groups who can contact less active individuals and support them with travel and personal care to attend activities such as luncheon clubs, often these types of activities may be the only contact an older person has with others during the week. Local residents and neighbours living next to elderly individuals need to be aware of their general needs and should be encouraged to maintain contact, and be comfortable in offering support when needed

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

To improve access and knowledge to local parks and countryside activities.

Residents of the Worth Valley should not be restricted from exploring local amenities and accessing the readily available joys of the local country side, feedback has revealed that people are not confident in accessing open land, fears over trespassing and safety play a key role. The use of local parks as areas where the community can come together and enjoy activities collectively need to be emphasised and encouraged. Groups such as Friends of Holden Park and the Friends of Haworth Park need to play a crucial role in developing community engagement activities in local parks.

Countryside safety could lead to a programme of knowledge enhancing walks and activities involving the various groups in the worth valley including schools and families.

Improving the Environment

Built and natural environments play an important role in how people feel about where they live, work and spend their leisure time. The Worth Valley Ward deserves an environment that will be valued by residents and visitors alike. A clean, high quality, safe local environment is integral to the Ward’s success. It will contribute to our sense of health and wellbeing, and the creation of strong, safe, and sustainable communities. Work will be done to create a clean, green and attractive visible environment within all of the worth valley’s Neighbourhoods.

To promote an anti dog fouling campaign

This is a core issue across the district, whilst more enforcement is now available through the increased roles and responsibilities of neighbourhood wardens, it is widely acknowledged that anti social behaviour such as allowing your dog to foul in public area and not clear up after it is an issue that can predominately only be targeted by education and a no tolerance approach adopted by individuals, residents and communities is to be promoted.

Anti dog fouling initiatives have their benefit and raise awareness of the social and health impacts but communities need to be empowered to challenge behaviour when they see it, and not expect a statutory response at all times.

Reduce instances of fly tipping

In a rural location like the Worth Valley Ward occurrences of fly tipping have increased, the reasons behind this are unclear. Most illegal tipping indicates a mixture of household rubbish, construction waste and more recently used tyres. This can be linked the cost of safely disposing items in a managed way.

Environmental Health Officers have various means of dealing with perpetrators, but in order to successfully tackle the issue local residents need clear information on how fly tippers are prosecuted and how they can become active citizens to challenge behaviour. This can only be achieved if programmes are established that demonstrate the benefits of a clean green environment.

Report to the Keighley Area Committee

Support for local groups improving their local environment.

Worth Valley is lucky to benefit from the voluntary endeavours of its active citizens, there are some key groups who support the environment in the worth valley, Parks and Landscapes Service have formed unique partnerships with local groups to improve neighbourhood parks.

Holden Park and Haworth Park are supported by successful and energetic individuals who care about their local environment and the historical significance of their parks. Parks are now centres of community engagement, celebration and fun. More activities in parks need to be supported; wider involvement from schools and youth groups is to be encouraged.

Local schools have been pioneers in learning outside the classroom; Haworth Primary school has been nationally recognised for its work with young gardeners and using the natural environment as the classroom. Examples like this will be used as good practice to encourage other schools in the Ward to develop similar programmes.

Strong and Cohesive Communities

Helping to improve community and civic responsibilities of those who live and work in the Ward.

The ward is has a busy population living their lives, feedback from residents indicate that they enjoy the community atmosphere of the villages and the close nit community feeling, this is however only possible when local residents themselves are committed to continuing this way of life.

Residents are confident in vocalising what they perceive as being positive or negative in their communities, this need to be developed into residents having the confidence and the vision to be part of an active citizen movement that strives to make their neighbourhoods and villages even better. Residents often feel they need the permission to make their ideas a reality, we will enable them to gain the confidence needed to be successful with full support from the organisations and partnerships delivering services in the Ward, the residents of the Worth Valley are also key partners in delivering these service.

In promoting the importance of equal life chances and fair access to services, it is recognised that, for a variety of reasons, people can feel socially excluded or isolated. Active Citizens in Keighley West need to promote ‘access points’ to being involved as not only an issue about the location and physical space, but also about communication, Report to the Keighley Area Committee

culture and how things are done, to enable everyone to understand and contribute as much as possible to a happy, vibrant and successful communities.

Useful Links

City of Bradford Metropolitan District Council. www.bradford.gov.uk

Compiled by: Noreen Akhtar Ward Co-ordinator Keighley Area Co-ordinators Office

March 2011