PUBLIC views are being sought on a multi-million pound scheme to transform a notorious Keighley bottleneck into dual carriageway.

A month-long consultation has started to gauge people's opinion on the long-awaited plans for Hard Ings Road.

But while many campaigners welcome the £7 million project, some question the extent to which it will relieve congestion.

The proposals include a new set of traffic lights at the Beechcliffe roundabout.

"I have no problem at all with making the road dual carriageway – the idea has been talked about for many years and it is long overdue," said Councillor Khadim Hussain (Ind, Keighley Central).

"However I am extremely sceptical about the benefits of traffic lights, which if not planned meaningfully can simply counteract any improvements in vehicle flows and actually create hold-ups. I will be raising this issue.

"Also, it is important that this forms part of a bigger picture in tackling Keighley's traffic problems.

"Measures need to be implemented in tandem with others. Individual projects alone won't solve the issues."

Councillor Zafar Ali, who is chairman of Keighley Area Committee, supports the proposals and has urged people to have their say.

A drop-in session is being staged at the town's Victoria Hall on September 29, from 2pm to 8pm, when the public can view the plans and submit comments.

People can also visit hardingsroad.com, e-mail info@hardingsroad.com or call 0800 032 1880.

Cllr Ali (Con, Keighley Central) said: "It's time something was done with this road and the proposals are good news.

"At peak times, it can take as long as 15 minutes just to get from one roundabout to the other.

"I would encourage people to take part in the consultation and give their opinions. This is a golden opportunity."

In addition to the road widening and traffic lights, there would be a signalised pedestrian crossing near the Lawkholme Lane junction.

A two-way cycle and pedestrian path is also planned, together with landscaping.

Traffic campaigner and former town mayor, Graham Mitchell, is a long-time backer of the scheme.

"Throughout my years on Keighley Town Council the need for the dualling of this stretch of road was discussed regularly," said Mr Mitchell.

"It is totally ludicrous that we have dual carriageway coming through from both Steeton and Crossflatts, only for it to converge in this single section of road.

"It should never have been left like that in the first place.

"One of the problems on that stretch of A650 is the many right-hand turns which can be made. That will have to be looked at."

Another long-time supporter of the project is Keighley MP Kris Hopkins.

"It is greatly needed and the work cannot begin quickly enough," he said.

"I hope local people will make a positive contribution to the consultation."

The consultation runs until October 7.

Work on the scheme has a target completion date of no later than 2019/20, although it could be in place earlier.

MORE TOP STORIES