Haworth is very important to Bradford. It is one of the reasons why tourists come to the district, lured by the romance of the Bronte name. And when they visit Haworth, hopefully they venture further afield and discover more of the delights that the Bradford Metropolitan District has to offer.

So it is vital that Haworth does not disappoint those who come to see it - not only for the district as a whole but also for the village itself, which has an economy now largely based on tourism. The new plan unveiled to help Haworth reap even greater benefits from that sector is an interesting initiative containing some excellent ideas.

Day-long, year-round passenger services on the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway would help to ease the traffic pressure on the village. A revamp of the car park, clean-up of the village toilets and a heritage trail highlighting places of historic interest should all help to make it more tourist-friendly.

However, Haworth is also a place where people live. There is something for them in the proposal for a scheme to provide grants for property owners to undertake building repairs. But that apart, the needs of the community should not be lost sight of in the drive to please tourists.

Members of the public are currently being asked for their views on the proposals before an action plan is finalised.

It is important that as many people as possible come forward to have their say, and that their opinions are fully considered to enable the scheme to have the best chance of suiting everyone - businesses, tourists and ordinary villagers alike.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.