Silsden Town Council must hand over £25,000 to provide community facilities in the town, says Bradford Council.

City Hall has confirmed it is still seeking the return of the money despite Silsden Town Council’s refusal to pay up.

West Yorkshire Police originally provided the money in 2005 for a community contact point in Silsden.

Bradford Council held the money until two years ago, then passed it to the town council to provide some sort of facility.

Meanwhile, district councillor Andrew Mallinson – who represents Craven ward on Bradford Council – has requested the cash for the town hall.

He said: “Because of financial constraints on the town hall project, £25,000 would put additional facilities or equipment into the hall.”

Coun Mallinson said there was a need for several items including additional lighting, seats, crockery and a “smart board” for public meetings.

But town council chairman Chris Atkinson has insisted the money should be spent on a community facility at nearby Wesley Place.

He said: “We’re in negotiation with Bradford Council to buy Wesley Place and the library building.

“Possession is nine tenths of the law and we have the money. It’s in our bank account, and that’s where it’s stopping. That money was given by West Yorkshire Police to the people of Silsden, not to Bradford, and not to Coun Mallinson.”

Now Bradford Council has issued a response, saying: “We have requested that the £25,000 be returned to ensure the redevelopment of the town hall meets the requirements of police for contact with local residents.”