A dictionary definition of the word exciting includes phrases such as 'to cause to become active', 'to stir up' and alternative words like 'thrilling'.

To use the word exciting to describe the plans for a new college in Keighley is absolutely correct.

The need for new accommodation for local people and employers to meet the needs of local businesses and young people in this area is vital.

The college has not only identified that need, but has quietly gone about holding meetings, drawn up plans and waited until the right time to make its new era announcement.

It has to be applauded for that, as there is nothing more destabilising to an area's regeneration plans than for schemes to be announced and not come to fruition.

Principal David Gates says the new college will be so much more than a new build - it will be a major investment for the town and will open the door to all manner of other opportunities for Keighley and district.

At the heart of the development is the college's stated intention to create the means for local people and employers to access first class education and training facilities on their doorstep.

The college currently provides a wide range of facilities, and will continue to do so until the new building is ready. But to meet the needs of the future - for example the requirements of legislation such as the Disability Discrimination Act - a new building is a necessity.

The new build is, as the college says, exceptionally important.

It will be a conduit to raise the aspirations and achievements of our young people.

Much work still has to be done, but today's announcement should be seen as a major foundation to underpin the dynamic future of Keighley and district.