AN ACTION group is protesting about the levels of security at a building site in Keighley - arguing it could be a danger to children.

Braithwaite and North Dean Action Group (BANDAG) has urged house builder Barratt Developments to make improvements at the Vision housing estate, off North Dean Avenue, which has suffered vandalism to security fencing.

BANDAG chairman June Newell said: "Something must be done to improve the safety of this site, because it is a serious hazard."

In response, Barratt stressed the firm takes site safety extremely seriously and was working to repair the damage.

Barbara Archer, also of BANDAG, said gaps in the fencing was making it easy for youngsters to get on to the site.

She cited the recent tragic death of seven-year-old Conley Thompson in South Yorkshire, as an example of what could happen if security measures are not put in place.

Conley died after entering and becoming trapped in a vertical pipe on the construction site near his home in Worsbrough, near Barnsley, on July 27.

Mrs Archer said the Vision estate construction site featured similar vertical pipes.

She said BANDAG members had reported their concerns to staff at the company's showroom on the construction site.

"They have sunk these drain inspection chambers into the ground, which are pipes about 10ft to 12ft tall," she said.

"If a child fell into one of these they would not be able to get out unless someone managed to rescue them.

"It is the summer holidays and there are at least a dozen of these inspection chambers many – of which are not secured. Some of them have lids on but some haven't.

"A young child can just walk onto the site without any problem, and I can't understand why there isn't more concern about this. It is everyone's responsibility to make our environment as safe as possible for children."

Barratt Homes spokesman said public safety was of paramount importance to the company.

“Site safety and security is of the utmost importance at Barratt Homes," he said.

"Across all sites, we employ a highly vigilant attitude to ensure all construction areas are well protected and off limits to the public.

"At Barratt’s Vision site in Keighley, we have had some difficulties with vandalism to some of the safety fencing.

"However, we continue to take a proactive approach to ensure we replace any damaged panels in the quickest timeframe possible.

"We are very proud of our excellent health and safety record, and the safety of our construction staff and members of the public will always be a top priority."