MAJOR plans for a state-of-the-art robotics and engineering facility in Keighley are being reviewed.

Rising costs since a funding bid for the scheme was first submitted has forced a rethink over the extent of what can be provided.

And the Advanced Robotics and Engineering Institute may no longer be built on part of the Stockbridge council depot site, as originally intended.

Last month, the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities announced the approval of £19.8 million in funding following the success of the bid, submitted by Bradford Council.

In a collaboration between Keighley College and Bradford University, the institute would support research and development in emerging technologies, offering high-level skills training and educational opportunities.

Some of the site would be offered to entrepreneurs too to create new advanced manufacturing and engineering businesses.

But the council says the plans are now being looked at again.

It confirmed the move after Keighley East councillor Caroline Firth submitted questions at the latest full council meeting.

She asked Bradford Council leader Cllr Susan Hinchcliffe if she joined her in welcoming the £19.8m funding for Keighley and in praising the officers who put the bid together.

Cllr Hinchcliffe said: "It is good news that Keighley has received an offer of funding through round three of the Levelling Up Fund.

"The proposal was initially submitted as part of round two in August 2022, but unfortunately was unsuccessful in that round.

"Due to the lapse of time since the bid was submitted, we are currently reviewing its contents to determine what is still deliverable.

"We have been liaising with partners involved in the bid and have been able to confirm to Government that we intend to deliver the projects, but we anticipate some changes to the proposals initially submitted.

"Finally, I absolutely join you in praising our officers who put the bid together."

Cllr Firth also sought a reassurance that if the Stockbridge depot was used for the scheme, there wouldn't be a negative impact on council services.

She was told: "At the time this bid was submitted it was proposed that the development would be situated on the Stockbridge site, with a new depot provided on part of the site. The services that operated out of there would remain the same, as the redevelopment would maximise efficient use of the site. We are currently reviewing the project and whether it will be delivered at Stockbridge or elsewhere in Keighley."

Cllr Firth said afterwards: "Residents have been wondering whether the new institute might have a negative impact on services currently run out of the depot. I was therefore pleased to be told there is enough space on the site for both the continuation of current services as well as the building of the new robotics institute, should this continue to be the preferred site.

"I asked a follow-up question regarding when the review would be completed. I was told that this is an ongoing piece of work but was assured by the portfolio holder, Cllr Alex Ross-Shaw, that councillors will be updated with progress as soon as information is available."