Bradford Chamber of Commerce & Industry today called on the district's politicians to support proposals to establish an Urban Regeneration Company (URC).

The Chamber's president, John Pennington, speaking ahead of today's meeting of the Executive Committee of Bradford Council, said the plans would galvanise the city centre.

He commended the idea as a move to demonstrate a clear sign to both the business community and to those holding the purse strings that the politicians were prepared to act positively in response to what was needed for the city.

The company, if formed, would run as a private enterprise with the ability to attract millions in public funding.

Mr Pennington said the regional development agency, Yorkshire Forward, had thrown down the challenge at the Chamber's annual dinner and it was now up to Bradfordians to respond.

He said: "We have seen a new mood of partnership working among many since the July disturbances and hopefully this can be carried forward both in the council chambers and out in the street.

"While the need to involve various groups to develop the vision is important, having one organisation responsible for making it a reality is also a key proposal. A URC will allow the private sector to be involved in planning and development in a meaningful way."

Chamber members have also spoken in favour of the scheme, including the Robinson Design Group, playing a part in city centre regeneration through initiatives such as the Forster Square development.

Harold Robinson, from the company, said: "We see this as providing a way of bringing strategy and focus to the development of Bradford city centre. It would be more likely to attract funding from Yorkshire Forward and other sources if Bradford is clear about what it wants to achieve and how.''

The Council's Executive Committee was due to consider proposals on bidding to the Government for the decision this afternoon.

The Chamber has also written directly to the three party leaders, as well as to the independent Green councillor.