BUSINESSES in the Bradford district have benefitted from a cash boost creating new jobs.

Money from the Keighley and Shipley Towns Funds has already made a huge difference to businesses, creating 40 jobs to date. Others are still invited to apply.

The Capital Assistance to Business Growth Programme is part of the Government-funded Towns Fund and there is £4m available to support businesses in the Keighley and Shipley areas, with approximately £2m allocated to each.

Grants are allocated by Towns Fund boards for each town, made up of private sector representatives, with support from Bradford Council.

Up to September 2023, 13 businesses in Keighley have been awarded up to £276,000 of funding, and eight businesses in Shipley have been awarded up to £137,000, with the expectation of 65 jobs being created as a result.

Funding has been spent on a wide range of projects by businesses across the district including expanding and modernising facilities, as well as replacing older equipment with more efficient, up-to-date systems.

One of the latest businesses to benefit is aluminium glazed façade manufacturer and installer Aire-Valley Architectural (Aluminium) Ltd, based on Parkwood Street in Keighley.

The business was able to create one new job after receiving £16,775 of funding towards machine software and installation, as well as upgrading the factory’s facilities.

Sales director Chris Kilvington said: “The business was established in 1994 and we’ve been in this same building since 2002. The grant has allowed us to improve and upgrade the facilities, including reconfiguring the way we work.

"It means we’ve been able to move the noisier elements of the processes into the same space, which is much better from a health and safety perspective.

“We’ve had such support from Bradford Council who have walked us through the application and supported us every step of the way. It’s made a real difference to the business and will continue to do so for years to come.”

Councillor Alex Ross-Shaw, Bradford Council’s portfolio holder for regeneration, planning and transport, added: “It’s so positive to see how this funding is already making such a significant impact.

"It has directly translated into growth for the businesses who have received it so far and the welcome creation of new jobs for the area.”

Ian Hayfield, chairman of Keighley Towns Fund, added: “There is funding available for businesses who would benefit and we’re keen to help Keighley’s businesses to grow. I would encourage anyone interested in applying to get in touch.”