THE councillors’ decision to back plans for a major new industrial park in Keighley will have raised a few eyebrows.

Approval for the controversial scheme – on a flood plain off Royd Ings Avenue – was given despite opposition from the Environment Agency, which has voiced concerns that it could increase flood risks further down the River Aire.

Those behind the proposed commercial units say the venture will mean a multi-million pound investment in the town and hundreds of jobs.

And that is the principal argument put forward by the ‘for’ lobby.

But despite assurances that the innovative ‘stilt’ design will guard against problems, there will still be many people who remain unconvinced – especially those living close to the river who suffered in the devastating floods of Boxing Day, 2015.

Also, questions arise as to why units need to be built on a flood plain in the first place when Keighley has several brownfield sites crying out for redevelopment.

The Environment Agency’s objections may have been rejected, but its influence will still be felt when it comes to the issuing of a licence.