Small firms in Bradford are being offered a helping hand to get over planning hurdles.

The Bradford Urban Planning Outreach Project, with offices in Bradford and Keighley, has been set up by Yorkshire Planning Aid to provide free and independent advice on planning issues.

And if the experts involved in the project cannot answer the question, they will find someone else who can.

Keith Walker, from the project, said: "Small firms often run into problems with planning issues and we are there to help them."

The project is linked with Business Link Bradford & District, the Federation of Small Businesses, Keighley Local Enterprise Agency and business consultants. It is assisted by the European Community's Regional Development Fund, Bradford Council, The National Lottery, Royds Community Association, the Newlands Partnership and the Bradford Diocesan Council for Social Aid Fund.

For details phone (01274) 722312 or (01535) 611809.