Metal railings are set to be built around the war memorial in Keighley’s Town Hall Square.

The proposals have been put forward by Keighley Town Council.

A planning application has been submitted to Bradford Council by Keighley town clerk Miggy Bailey.

If approved, the railings would be located at the base of the grade two listed monument’s stone plinth.

A design and access statement accompanying the application says the railings are needed to prevent damage to the memorial’s stonework by skateboarders, stunt bike riders and others.

It adds: “We need to protect the memorial from future damage.

“It is 80 years since the erection of the war memorial and it now requires urgent attention to protect it for a further 80 years, as a valuable local feature and centrepiece in Town Hall Square. We have the blessing of the Royal British Legion, who have urged us to take these steps to prevent further deterioration of the structure.

“The railings will be set in lead at the edge of the cobbled area and will be of a height that members of the public cannot sit on them.

“The railings will not be erected on the monument itself.”

The statement adds the railings will be painted black and will be designed to have as little impact as possible on the memorial’s setting and architectural character.

It also says: “There will be two gated areas for access on to the monument.

“It is suggested that the gates be locked and the key held by the One Stop Shop (in the town hall) should anyone wish to lay a wreath at a time other than on Remembrance Day, in November.”

The application plans, now available to view online, say the proposed railings should be the same height as the upper level of the plinth.

There have long been concerns that the condition of the memorial is being eroded because it is so easily accessible.

Unofficial plans to fence it off were put forward by councillors in 2004.