A scheme to transform a traffic-choked Keighley main road into a dual carriageway has moved a step closer.

The Hard Ings Road project is among a £14.5 million-plus package of measures given funding approval by county transport chiefs.

West Yorkshire Integrated Transport Authority’s executive board gave the spending green light to nearly 30 other schemes on Friday.

The decision paves the way for preparatory and consultation work to begin.

Initial work will include detailed modelling, seeking of views and analysis of the costs, risks and benefits. Results will be used to put together business cases for each project.

Funding for the scheme proper would come from several sources, including the Department for Transport.

Councillor James Lewis, chairman of county transport body Metro, said: “These are important schemes, all of which meet the West Yorkshire Local Transport Plan’s key objectives of improving connectivity to support economic growth, enhancing people’s quality of life and making substantial progress towards a low-carbon, sustainable transport system.

“I look forward to seeing each of them progress during the coming months.”

The Keighley project also includes improvements to the town centre, where a one-way system along Cavendish Street, East Parade and Hanover Street has already received £1.5 million of funding.