METAL thefts across the region have soared – with derelict Keighley buildings amongst the targets of criminals.

Data from the Office for National Statistics shows that West Yorkshire Police recorded 404 metal theft offences in 2021-22 – up from 261 the previous year.

Of the thefts last year, 66 were infrastructure-related – which includes the stripping of metal such as roofing lead from buildings, taking electricity or railway cables, and stealing vehicle parts.

The remaining 338 were non-infrastructure related, which could involve stealing scrap metal or war memorial plaques.

Keighley premises which have been targeted by thieves include the disused former Holme Wood Resource Centre, in the Fell Lane area.

Holme Wood, which provided a range of respite and day care provision, closed in 2013.

Over the years, the state of the vacant building has deteriorated and the site has become a magnet for anti-social behaviour and criminals.

Residents have reported seeing thieves walking away from the site with items such as electric wiring, pipes, sinks, parts of kitchens and bathrooms, and radiators.

Owner Bradford Council plans to demolish the building next month, after unsuccessful efforts to find an alternative use for the premises.

The metal thefts data also shows that there has been a sharp rise in offences across England and Wales ­– from 19,000 in 2020-21 to 30,100 last year, the highest number since comparable records began in 2013-14.

The Local Government Association says rates have risen due to several factors, including a significant increase in metal prices.

Association bosses are calling on the Government to tighten up the Scrap Metal Dealers Act.

Nesil Caliskan, who chairs the association's safer and stronger communities board, adds: "Metal theft is extremely damaging and costly and has the potential to affect a range of people and businesses."

Motoring organisation the AA is also pressing for more to be done.

Last year there was a surge in thefts of catalytic converters from vehicles, including a number of incidents across Keighley.

Jack Cousens, head of roads policy with the AA, said: "Whilst reputable scrap merchants uphold and implement the rules, more needs to be done to tackle the yards willing to turn a blind eye."

West Yorkshire Police, which has issued guidance on its website, says it is an offence for a dealer to purchase scrap metal for cash. The dealer must pay by cheque or by electronic transfer, and record the transaction.