A development agreement has been struck to pave the way for phase one of a new sustainable community in the heart of Bradford.
Bradford City Village aims to transform the city centre by creation a community where people can live within walking distance of amenities, shops, parks, work and school. The scheme will have up to 1,000 new homes, including affordable homes, three new community parks and public spaces, shops, cafes, restaurants, and offices.
The project, which is being delivered through a partnership between Bradford Council, ECF, Homes England and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, took a step forward this week as the local council and ECF – the partnership between Homes England, Legal & General and Muse – entered into a Development Agreement to kick-start construction.
The milestone follows the launch of the Government’s Devolution White Paper which it said is a key way to kickstart economic growth.
Bradford Council leader Coun Susan Hinchcliffe said: “This is an exciting step forward in our vision to create a healthy, sustainable and friendly neighbourhood. City Village is a transformative regeneration programme which will re-define the city centre. Whilst housing is at the heart of these plans, City Village will also create opportunities for new independent retail, cafes, bars and business spaces in a city that in 2025 will become the UK’s number one cultural destination.
“It shows the direction of Bradford for the next 10 years – quality housing, more public and green spaces with a strong cultural offer, creating the quality of city centre living that our residents need and deserve. We’re delighted to be moving forward on City Village, as part of a much bigger picture of regeneration across Bradford with current programmes like One City Park complete, and the pedestrianisation works due to finish soon.”
Bradford City Village is one of 15 sites identified in the Strategic Place Partnership between the West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA) and Homes England, announced last year, which aims to unlock residential regeneration schemes and boost the delivery of thousands more homes.
Tracy Brabin, mayor of West Yorkshire, said: “Thanks to partnership working and the power of devolution, we’re unlocking millions of pounds of investment to regenerate communities, raise living standards, build more homes and grow our economy. Bradford City Village will be a gamechanger for West Yorkshire as we work to build a stronger, brighter region.”
With the crucial Development Agreement now in place, ECF will work in partnership with the Council to progress a planning application expected to be submitted in spring 2025, following a second phase of public consultation.
Sir Michael Lyons, chair of ECF, said: “City Village is Bradford’s most ambitious regeneration project in generations. We’re excited to continue to work with the Council, Homes England and West Yorkshire Combined Authority to help Bradford realise its full potential, transforming the city centre into a safe, sustainable and inclusive place where people will want to live, as well as work and visit.”
Original artice – https://business-live.co.uk/all-about/yorkshire-humber
