EFFORTS to win £1 million of regeneration cash for neglected Keighley neighbourhoods will reach their pinnacle this winter.
Residents of ‘Keighley Valley’ are ready to submit their Big Local action plan in time for the deadline in March.
The 18 townspeople have drawn up detailed plans for ten years of investment and activity in a zone running from Stockbridge to Ingrow.
The Keighley Valley area includes Stockbridge, Strong Close, Thwaites, Worth Village, Parkwood, Woodhouse, Spring Bank and Wesley Place, as well as parts of Riddlesden and Ingrow.
Big Local was launched in 2012 with the intention of spending £1 million of lottery cash on community projects during an initial 12-month period.
Cash will only be granted if the project is led by a strong partnership with residents, but initial efforts of the past three years failed to attract enough interest.
Mr O’Hare was employed early in 2015 to reinvigorate the project, and he has since held dozens of small events along the valley to drum up support.
He said that due to residents’ efforts, Keighley Valley is now the best possible position to secure the £1 million of Big Local funding.
Mr O’Hare added: “We have a really special group of 18 residents.
"Many of them have little experience of volunteering but make up for that with a huge amount of local knowledge, and a genuine desire to improve their communities.
“This small group has worked together to produce a ten-year plan of investment and activity, which addresses the issues that really matter to local people, ensuring the opportunity is not lost."
Mr O’Hare said the “absolute key” to a successful Big Local is encouraging people to get involved.
He added: “Getting out and about has been the key to the success of this past 12 months. Talking to people face-to-face on street corners, at their work and in their community spaces has seen enthusiasm spread.
“We have given residents the opportunity to work together, share experience and test ideas, creating a genuine shared vision for folk to sign up to and deliver with Big Local resources.”
Mr O’Hare stressed other people can still get involved in the project.
He added: “Everyone is welcome – every contribution will help make a difference. If an individual believes their only strength is making a cup of tea, great, come on board – everyone enjoys a good brew!”
E-mail Mr O’Hare at admin@keighleybiglocal.org.uk for further information.
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