The 12,500 people of the Barkerend and Leeds Road area of voting age are being given a rare opportunity to take decisions which will have a significant impact on the future of the part of Bradford in which they live. The election for membership of the board which will spearhead a massive regeneration programme is important and deserves to be taken very seriously.

This is no poll to decide between remote politicians. It isn't about party politics. It's about ordinary local people choosing from among their neighbours and members of their communities the team they feel will be best placed to handle a regeneration programme which should, if match-funding plans meet expectations, have £71.4 million at its disposal. As the leader of the Council's Liberal-Democrat group, Councillor Jeanette Sunderland, says, the project has massive potential for that side of the city.

It offers a chance to transform the area. It can bring much-needed jobs. It can boost education and training. Rundown housing and shabby streets can be greatly improved. Crime can be cut. The general health and well-being of residents can be given a significant boost.

All these things should be possible with all that money available, if those entrusted with spending it do so wisely. Given that the majority of members of the 26-strong board will be elected locally, the success of the scheme will to a large extent be down to the judgement of the people who vote for them.

That is why this election is so significant. It is vital that people take it seriously and make their vote count.