The Telegraph & Argus asked Bradford’s MPs and the group leaders of the Council’s main political groups for their views of what 2012 will bring. Not surprisingly the country’s continued economic troubles and the impact it will have on their constituents dominated their thoughts.

Bradford South Labour MP Gerry Sutcliffe: “The start of a new year is usually a time of optimism, of new beginnings and a hope for a better future. However, it is undoubtedly true that many people in Bradford will be approaching 2012 with concern and trepidation.

“Concern about their families’ living standards, for their jobs and for the economy as a whole. As the economy continues to stagnate it is difficult to see light at the end of the tunnel.

“But Bradfordians are resilient and enterprising folk. Although prospects look grim, it is undoubtedly true that opportunities will present themselves. Opportunities for individuals, for communities and for the city as a whole. The task for all of us is to ensure that we are ready and properly equipped to identify and take advantage of those opportunities when they present themselves.”

Shipley Conservative MP Philip Davies: “The Olympic Games are likely to dominate 2012, but my main concerns for 2012 are the state of the economy and the proposed major housing developments in Menston and Micklethwaite.

“Locally, I am utterly opposed to the planned developments in Menston and Micklethwaite and will continue to do all I can to help local residents in their opposition to these.

“I am delighted that Sainsbury’s is coming to Bingley which I feel will provide a boost to the town which is already enhanced by the new shopping centre and regular market. I want to see the shops in all of our towns and villages thrive despite a very difficult trading environment.

“At this time of year in particular, we should remember our Armed Forces who have not been able to enjoy Christmas and New Year with their families. We owe them a huge debt of gratitude and wish them all a speedy and safe return.”

Bradford East Liberal Democrat MP David Ward: “Christmas and the New Year period are times for reflection – on the year that has gone and the year to begin.

“For many, the last few years have been harsh and the year ahead offers uncertainty and even fear. The blame game of who caused the terrible financial mess we – and much of the world – are now experiencing is tiresome and irritating.

“There seems to be a general acceptance that harsh measures are required if we are to deal with the crisis we face and a lack of patience with those who pretend we can somehow solve our deep-rooted problems without painful and unpleasant remedies. At a time of giving to others, the greatest gift my generation can give to their children is to accept our responsibility for removing from their shoulders the cost now and in the future of paying for the errors we have made.”

Keighley Conservative MP Kris Hopkins: “Given the financial mess and widening economic uncertainty, particularly in the eurozone, 2011 has been a difficult year.

“However, in adversity, the best of people often comes to the fore. That has undoubtedly been the case over the last 12 months. Despite being at the sharp end of some of the most difficult decisions the Government has had to take, public sector workers – including those employed in the NHS, in schools, in the civil service and by local government – have demonstrated their remarkable dedication to duty on behalf of us all.

“As we look forward to 2012, I believe that all regions, not just London and the South-East, will benefit from the presence of the Olympic and Paralympic Games. The highlight for me will be Sunday, June 24, when the Olympic Flame is carried through the streets of Keighley and Ilkley.”

Councillor Ian Greenwood, leader of Bradford Council: “On behalf of the Labour Group I wish every citizen of the district a happy New Year. These are challenging times but this district has always shown resilience in difficult times and I am confident that with our determination, common sense and creativity we can do so again.”

Councillor Glen Miller, the Council’s Conservative group leader, said: “The last couple of years have been tough on many local residents and many further afield and it would appear as if the coming year may not see much, if any improvement.

“Closer to home, within the Bradford district we see a failing Labour-set budget hugely overspent, a leadership and executive with little or no direction, who can do nothing but blame the coalition government for their failings.

“A group that puts self interest above those of the district, and one that will not carry out any meaningful consultation.

“It is the duty of those of us who put ourselves forward to represent the public interest, to do whatever is within our power to assist local residents through these difficult times. To this end the Conservative group on Bradford Council will be pressing the Council to direct its resources to the protection of frontline services and also helping hard pressed council taxpayers, plus businesses through the recession.

“We as a group will be presenting a budget for the district and policy proposals augmented by a desire to help people through the challenges the year will bring.

Bradford West Labour MP Marsha Singh was not able to respond to the T&A’s request due to illness, and Bradford Council Liberal Democrat group leader Jeanette Sunderland was unavailable.