Keighley MP Ann Cryer has spoken out on a drugs detoxification centre being set up in the town's Woodville Road.

Local residents have hit out at the centre which they believe will lower the value of their property and lead to dealers operating in the area.

A public meeting with representatives of Teen Challenge, the Christian drug rehabilitation group, which will run the centre, has been suggested.

But Pastor John Macey, UK leader of the organisation, which has centres all over the world, says he will only meet councillors and ward representatives.

Ann Cryer would like to reach a middle ground in the rift and has written to Teen Challenge. She said: "I am not opposing the idea of a rehab and detox centre.

"I think it would help to talk to people who are anxious about it, to answer their queries and put their minds at rest.

"I think people in that area are in more danger from people under the influence of drugs and those dealing and pushing drugs in the area.

"They have less to worry about with people who voluntarily go into a centre like that."

She feels that any threat to Woodville Road residents, regarding drugs, comes from what is already there.

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