THE SURROUNDINGS of a historic mill have been spruced up with help of regeneration group Keighley Big Local.

The volunteer-run organisation teamed up with the owners of Dalton Mills to improve the grounds following extensive renovations to the buildings themselves.

West Yorkshire Community Payback team began the work by preparing railings for painting.

The project was highlighted by Bradford Council officers at the latest meeting of Keighley Area Committee.

A spokesman said: “The exterior of the building has benefitted from refurbishment over several years but now it was time for the grounds to catch up.

“The new look also includes the planting of an avenue of trees – literally turning the ‘grey to green’ and making it an attractive gateway into town.”

Keighley Big Local coordinator Shaun O’Hare said Big Local bought the tools for the job and Dalton Mills paid for the paints.

He added: “The trees were planted by Forest of Bradford. A grant came from Trees for Cities, and Dalton Mills (Bellissimo Trading) paid for the excavations including resurfacing of the car park.

“The Big Local Partnership had voted to support the landscape scheme, enhancing the immediate environment of the Mill and making it more welcoming to the public.

“Dalton Mill hosts a number of local business providing leisure activities: AW School of Dance, Soaring Eagle Karate, Aire Valley Gymnastics, and the Renaissance Motorcycle workshop.”