Bradford Council have today, 6th July 2026, confirmed in writing that they have finally come to a decision not to release funding to the Keighley Cougars for the redevelopment of the Danny Jones Stand at Cougar Park.
The funding was allocated to the Keighley Cougars by the previous Conservative government through the Keighley Towns Fund back in 2022, with the accounting body responsible for administering the distribution of the funds being the local authority, Bradford Council.
The funds were earmarked to replace the ageing Danny Jones stand at Cougar Park, which is in dire need of repair. The funding was allocated on the basis that the stand would be replaced to secure the long-term viability of the sporting venue, which is also used for other clubs and sporting activities beyond the Keighley Cougar team.
Bradford Council have spent the last four years reviewing the Cougar Park project and today has confirmed that, as the accounting body, they have finally come to a decision not to award the £2.137 million funding. The Council have said they “are looking to reprioritise the funds” to the other projects. Bradford Council are yet to confirm which projects they will be reallocating the funds towards.
Local MP Robbie Moore has been calling on Bradford Council to release the funds to the Keighley Cougars ever since the money was secured in 2022. His frustration has been raised directly with officers at Bradford Council, including the Chief Executive Lorraine O’Donnell, as well as through meetings with Ministers in Westminster and through contributions within the Houses of Commons chamber.
At the last Towns Fund Board meeting, the local MP again asked Bradford Council officers for an update on the Keighley Cougar project, with the response being that a decision would be made by the end of the month.
Upon hearing the final decision, Robbie Moore MP has expressed his anger and deep frustration that after four years of “dither and delay”, and his repeated calls for Bradford Council to release the funds, they have now decided not to do so.
Robbie Moore MP said:
"I am absolutely furious that we have reached this point.
"The Cougars are one of the beating hearts of our town. They are far more than a rugby league club. They bring our community together, inspire young people and are a source of immense pride for our town. Cougar Park is used by many others, and therefore it is right that we have a sporting facility which is fit for many generations to come.”
"Over 2 million was allocated to the redevelopment of the Danny Jones Stand by the previous Conservative government. It followed a detailed Towns Investment Plan which was supported by many locally and subsequently approved by central government back in 2022, before the funds were to be distributed via the Keighley Towns Fund, with Bradford Council having final sign-off.”
“It is simply outrageous that the Council has now said they will not be releasing the funds to the Cougars after four years of dither and delay, and will instead be reallocating the funds to other projects.”
“Where on earth is the local political leadership at the Council? Why has the new Reform administration signed this decision off after years of ineptitude and sluggish conduct by the previous Labour administration.
I am calling on Bradford Council to immediately reverse their decision and release the money to Cougar Park.
We know that when sport does well locally, so does our town. This investment is critical.”
