Plans have been unveiled for new flood warning facilities in Silsden.

The proposals to install an instrument box and pipe work on Silsden Bridge have been drawn up by the Environment Agency as part of a flood alleviation scheme.

An Environment Agency spokesman said: "The Agency has applied for planning permission to install a telemetry system at Silsden Bridge. This is a piece of equipment which monitors water levels around the clock, so that we can issue early warnings to allow people to take action if flooding is possible.

"This is just one of 30 sites across Yorkshire where the Agency is spending money on such systems as part of our £1.5 million investment in flood warning in 2002 and 2003."

If permission is given, the precautionary measures will be welcomed by the town after recent heavy flooding caused chaos.

Fire fighters were called to Silsden in mid June after Silsden Beck overflowed, causing widespread flooding.

The ground floor of Marsels - about the size of a football pitch - at the industrial park off Belton Road flooded.

Other businesses and homes were also badly affected, as well as roads and the Keighley Road football pitch.

In England and Wales the Environment Agency operates a flood warning service in areas at risk of flooding from rivers or the sea. Residents and businesses are alerted to the risk of flooding through the media, direct to people's workplace or home or using loudspeakers.

Anyone wanting more details can call the Floodline on 0845 988 1188 or log onto website at www.environment-agency.gov.uk