RH McDowell Ltd submitted a grant application to the Keighley SRB Partnership Board earlier this year, to support its relocation from premises in Bradford Road, Riddlesden, to a larger unit at Deal Street, Thwaites Village.

The company was awarded a £12,000 grant from the programme's Property Investment Fund towards the £50,000 total cost of the refurbishment of the new premises, which included creating a vehicle repair workshop and improvements to the building's security.

Roger McDowell, managing director, says: "The business had outgrown the old premises, so much that expansion was impossible. This grant award will enable us to take the company forward in due course.

"We have worked very closely with the council's Investment Unit and the Keighley SRB team, and they have been very supportive in terms of advice and assistance.

"The move has created three new jobs, and hopefully more will follow."

RH McDowell Ltd has been trading for over 16 years, and during that time has gradually expanded its operations. The company now runs a fleet of 23 vehicles and provides haulage services for a number of major companies.

Cllr Andy Mudd, chairman of Keighley SRB Partnership Board, says: "This company is one of a growing number of enterprises to benefit from Single Regeneration Budget grants to support jobs and investment in the area.

"The money has cemented the company's future in the town, and these improvements will meet both the company's needs and national regulations laid down by the Department of Transport."

Under the Keighley SRB programme, £18.7 million of government money is being invested in a wide range of local regeneration schemes over a seven year period.

Matching funding contributions are expected to increase the total value of the programme to around £80 million.

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