Ilkley people are being urged to attend a meeting in the town to discuss a controversial plan to turn part of Bradford City Centre into an 'urban wetland' and lake.

Ilkley parish councillor Lexa Robinson has expressed fears about the possible burden to Ilkley taxpayers of contributing to the maintenance costs of the ambitious scheme.

The plan could see money spent on an huge regeneration scheme in the centre of Bradford.

Bradford Urban Regeneration Company has set up an exhibition in the city centre to show people what is planned, and is holding a number of meetings around the district to consult with local ratepayers about its large-scale 15-20 year regeneration scheme - including a meeting in Ilkley next week.

Coun Robinson wants residents to attend the meeting and question those running the scheme about the cost to Wharfedale's council tax payers.

The proposed regeneration scheme includes:

l The creation of lake close to Bradford City Hall with a 'pier-type' structure leading to the National Museum of Photography, Film and Television.

l Development of a 'canal-side community' on Canal Road

l 'Uplifting' of the shopping areas, making them more multi-cultural

l The uncovering of Bradford Beck to create a wetland environment in the Thornton Road corridor

A consultation period on the plan ends this month.

Coun Robinson said a number of Ilkley residents had raised concerns such as the potential cost of maintenance work after the lake and wetland area was created.

Although it is believed money for the regeneration work may already be available, it is feared the future maintenance bill could fall on local council tax payers.

"There's a lot of people questioning why, and who's going to pick up the bill for the maintenance afterwards," said Councillor Robinson.

"I would encourage people to go to this meeting, then they can ask these questions that they've been asking me, such as why do they want a lake there, where's the money coming from, who's going to look after when it's been done and who's going to pay for the maintenance."

Coun Robinson said she was not against regenerating the centre of Bradford, but would like to see certain questions answered. She said she had been asked why a firm from outside the area had been paid to draw up the plans, when local architectural firms could have done the work.

"There's some very fine artists with the Bradford area and architects who can do the same job. Why aren't we going to local companies to generate jobs within the area and help the local economy?" said Coun Robinson.

The meeting will take place at The Crescent Hotel, Brook Street, Ilkley, on Tuesday December 9, starting at 6pm.