Controversial £40m city scheme gets go-ahead

THE controversial £40m New Victoria Place development on the site of the former Odeon cinema in Bradford has won planning approval.

Bradford councillors voted in favour of the scheme at a meeting this week which will now see the demolition of the former Odeon cinema to make way for a glass-fronted city centre development boasting offices, a 100-bed hotel, bars cafes and community leisure space around a central square.

Langtree Artisan, the developer on the project, which was designed by Yorkshire-based architects Careyjones, had submitted revised plans after discussions with English Heritage, which had seen its size reduced.

The move was hailed as a “landmark decision” by Simon Peters, director of Langtree Artisan.

He said: “This is a landmark decision and the right decision to provide the catalyst for the regeneration of Bradford. The project team has worked hard to create a viable scheme that is deliverable, iconic and beneficial to all Bradfordians. We will now work on the detailed designs and engage with those who have already expressed an interest in being a part of New Victoria Place.

“We’re confident that we can deliver a scheme that local people will ultimately be proud of. The architecture is underpinned by sustainable principles and we’re committed to delivering an inspiring and innovative new scheme that represents Bradford’s future whilst respecting its past.”

The project, on the corner of Prince’s Way and Thornton Road, has been dogged by criticism with a campaign by local people to try to keep the iconic Odeon building standing.

But those who have championed the plans say they will now see more than 1,350 jobs created in the city on a site which is integral to its regeneration along with the City Park, the Learning Quarter, Eastbrook Hall and relocation of the Magistrates Court.

Maud Marshall, chief executive at Bradford Centre Regeneration, said: “The redevelopment of the site is a crucial part of the regeneration of the city.
 
“A lot of time and effort has been invested in ensuring the scheme reflects the city’s future aspirations, whilst complementing the richness of its architectural heritage.
 
“New Victoria Place will bring much needed offices, shops, a hotel and, most importantly, jobs to the city centre, as well as significantly benefiting the wider regeneration of Bradford. “We look forward to the scheme progressing in the fastest possible way to bring a key city centre site back into positive economic use.”
 
Gordon Carey, chairman of Careyjones, said: “We are absolutely delighted to be involved in this important scheme. It will build upon the momentum established by City Park and other neighbouring developments. Given today’s decision, we look forward to the delivery of this vibrant project for Bradford’s future which will reflect the city’s heritage in its architecture.”