Campaigners fighting for a town council in Pudsey are hoping it will be up and running by the new Millennium.

A steering group to examine the proposal has now been formed following a public meeting at Pudsey Civic Hall.

Residents attended the meeting to discuss the proposals for a town council for Pudsey and parish councils for Calverley, Rodley and Farsley.

Councillor Andrew Carter, one of the organisers of the campaign, said: "It was a very positive meeting and there were more than 60 people there.

"The steering committee is totally non-political and representative of all of the residents.

"Everyone who is concerned about the area is working together and we want as many people as possible to get involved.

"Now is the ideal time to get some independence back into our area with a town council.

"It will enhance civic pride, involve more people in the running of our area and bring some local overdue improvements.

"It is right that everyone is aware of all the facts and these proposals should only go ahead with the support of the people we represent."

But campaigners pointed out that the move would lead to an increase of between £3 and £26 on top of the present rate of Council Tax.

"Everyone should be aware of the implications," said Coun Carter.

"At the moment, existing parish and town councils in the city of Leeds cost a Band D Council Tax payer between £3 and £26 per year on top of their Council Tax."

The steering committee will now have to decide which areas will be covered by the town or parish councils.

A petition has been started which must be signed by people living within the boundaries of the town council.

This will then be handed in to Leeds City Council which has to decide whether to conduct a referendum in the area.

The final decision will be made by John Prescott, Secretary of State of Transport, Environment and Regions.

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