Demolition works begin on multi-storey car park to transform city gateway

Works have begun to demolish the NCP multi-storey car park on Hall Ings, in Bradford.

It is the first step of a series of improvements to radically improve Bradford’s Interchange and the surrounding area.

This should facilitate the biggest change to the external appearance of the Interchange since it was opened in 1973 and is intended to enhance the arrival for visitors to the city centre.

Once demolition is complete, a pocket park will be created on part of the NCP site to add more greenery to the Interchange approach, while a landscaped walkway will be built connecting the Interchange to Hall Ings directly.

On Bridge Street, a station forecourt will be recreated to improve the existing main entranceway to the Interchange.

The landscaped entrance approaches will include trees and planting, seating, a new entrance to the car park, and a cycle hub.

The project is set to open during the district’s year as City of Culture in 2025.

External work is to be complemented by more facilities inside the Interchange itself as part of a later phase, including new seating, digital information boards, safety improvements and signage.

Alongside the demolition, in early 2024 work will begin to pedestrianise Hall Ings. New walking and cycling routes, as well as new seating areas and landscaping, will replace the majority of the existing road space.

The Interchange gateway improvement project is part of the transformation of Bradford’s city centre, funded through the Government’s Transforming Cities Fund and being brought forward in partnership between Bradford Council and West Yorkshire Combined Authority.

Councillor Alex Ross-Shaw, Bradford Council’s executive member for regeneration, planning and transport, said: “The plans that are being carried out as part of the Transforming Cities Fund project are set to elevate our city centre to the next level. The demolition of the NCP on Hall Ings marks a significant milestone in this process.

“We understand there is a lot going on in Bradford city centre at the moment – lots of roadworks and building work – but this short-term disruption will benefit us and future generations for many years to come.”

Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said: “This marks an important step forward in the transformation of Bradford city centre in the lead up to UK City of Culture 2025.

“Together we’re making it easier to walk, cycle and use public transport, creating a better environment for everyone. A Bradford city centre fit for the 21st century is a key part of my vision for a better-connected West Yorkshire.”