People are being given the opportunity to have their say on how they would like to see far-reaching plans for the future of Airedale developed.

Regenerational work in the Aire Valley could see the area transformed into Europe's centre of digital communications.

Six events have been organised for the public to give their views to shape a masterplan, which is proposed will build on the success of existing hi-tech firms such as Pace and Filtronic to turn Shipley, Saltaire, Bingley and Keighley into a renowned centre of cutting-edge technology by 2020.

The masterplan, drawn up by consultants Arup who have been employed by regional development agency Yorkshire Forward and the private sector-led Airedale Partnership, would complement Bradford city centre's ambitious redevelopment which is being undertaken by Bradford Centre Regeneration.

Arup's £475,000 blueprint proposes a radical development of innovative businesses and education, improved public transport and the environment.

Proposals include revitalising Shipley railway station, building a financial sector in Bingley and developing a research and development headquarters of a nano-technology and robotics firm in Keighley.

A 24-hour link from Bradford rail station to Leeds-Bradford International Airport via stations in the area is also proposed.

Councillor Simon Cooke (Con, Bingley Rural), chairman of the Airedale Partnership, said: "These consultations are key to delivering a masterplan that focuses on the main issues affecting local people, agencies and businesses.

"By going into local communities, the consultants will be able to identify their needs and priorities as well as common factors.''

Michael Osborne, Arup's project director for the Airedale masterplan, said: "Public interest in our work has been very encouraging and we are looking to get more feedback from the community.

"I would urge local people to come along and get involved in the consultations.

"The masterplan's long-term success is dependent of the input of everyone."

Andrew Wallhead, head of Yorkshire Forward in West Yorkshire, said: "It is important that the people of Airedale are right behind the plans for its future development.''

It is understood that a general Aire Valley masterplan will be produced by next spring with possibly three more sub-plans for Bingley, Keighley and Shipley.