Seven key zones have been identified, which include providing a railway station, improving a riverside park and reviving the town's shopping centre.

And, although there is no funding to bring the plans to fruition, the council is being urged to set the ball rolling.

Chairman of the Elland and District Partnership Joe Braithwaite said approval was another step along the way.

"It is now up to the council to kick-start progress," he said.
Mr Braithwaite said the riverside park near Elland bridge could be improved using council labour and planting schemes at little cost.

Also, improvements to traffic flow could be implemented cheaply such as making Southgate one-way.

"They would not cost much but would be of benefit to Elland," said Mr Braithwaite, whose group had been involved in the consultation process.

"And it is now up to the council to interest private developers on what can be done.

"It is ok passing the supplementary planning document but now we have the matter of funding improvements."

His view was echoed by Liberal Democrat ward councillor Diane Park who said residents wanted to see action as well as words.

"Elland is a traditional market town and has struggled to prosper in the face of major economic change and many people feel forgotten," she said.

"There is no point in having a plan without the cash to make things happen."

The proposals were discussed at a meeting on Tuesday night of the Elland and District Partnership. Around 40 people attended including Conrad Winterburn (Lib Dem, Greetland and Stainland) who said: "It is all very well having this plan but the rescources and ideas have actually got to be put into effect so it is not just there, not just pie in the sky."

It was suggested Yorkshire Forward be approached for money.

Mr Braithwaite said: "It is a matter of watch this space for Elland now."

The document is due to be formally approved at a meeting of the council on April 23.

Regeneration and development spokesman David Kirton (Con, Hipperholme and Lightcliffe) welcomed the plans and said: "These will make Elland a more attractive place for people to live, work and visit."

Seven aims
Riverside Park: Create a safe, accessible and high quality open space.

Metro Station: To link Elland to the regional and national rail network.

Nu-Swift site: Redevelop with high quality employment.opportunities.

Southgate: A vibrant and attractive shopping area.

Northgate, The Cross and Upper Southgate: Redevelop derelict sites and regenerate a key area.

Town Hall Triangle and Timber Street: Regenerate a key gateway into the centre.

Dewsbury Road area: Ensure this developing site complements the rest of central Elland.

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