Volunteers have tried to get plans for the multi-million pound Castleford Forum – originally to include a new library, museum and community space – brought to life for ten years but have been set back by the rejection of funding bids.

Ambitious designs for the creative centre were shelved last year and now a new steering group has been set up to work towards renovating the town's library, adding a museum, and transforming the adjacent old market hall into an arts venue.

Alison Drake, chairman of Castleford Heritage Trust, said: "It's just ten years since we started the forum project.

"At our annual general meeting last week people asked how long they were going to be waiting to see this achievement come to fruition.

"I would like to get on with it as soon as we can now."

Wakefield Council, which is working with the trust, earmarked £2.9m for the Forum in its revised capital programme in March.

Authority chiefs are in negotiations with Edinburgh House – which is starting its £50m retail and housing project in Castleford this year – to obtain the market hall but campaigners fear that may never be realised.

Alison added: "If it did end up just a library it would be such a shame after ten years of work, vision and hope.

"The council is in negotiations to obtain the old market hall, which we would like to use as a space for events or exhibitions.

"A structural survey showed those buildings just need care, maintenance and attention – refurbishment is entirely possible.

"For years we've been told this agreement is going to be signed soon and it's been going on too long."

Castleford councillor Tony Wallis, vice-chairman of the trust, said: "This project is long overdue.

"The market hall could even be developed separately, but we need more than a library to make more of our Roman history, put some pride back in the town and help regenerate the town centre."

Andy Wallhead, council corporate director for regeneration, said: "The council has been working very hard to finalise our negotiations around the Edinburgh House Development Agreement as we are committed to getting the best deal for Castleford.

"This has involved complex negotiations which are nearing their end and we hope the agreement will soon be signed.

"It's important we get it right and we are keeping our partners fully informed.

"We remain fully committed to supporting the forum and other heritage initiatives in Castleford.

"We already have significant funds set aside to achieve this and are looking at how we can make the most of it – this includes looking for other funding opportunities."