Landmark development agreement signed for city centre transformation plan

Credit: 5Plus Architects

Creation of a community in Bradford has advanced, with Bradford Council and ECF – a partnership between Homes England, Legal & General and Muse – striking a Development Agreement for the first phase of Bradford City Village.

The City Village, which aims to completely transform Bradford city centre, is set to be one of the first examples of devolution in action – delivered thanks to a collaboration between Bradford Council, ECF, Homes England and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA).

Credit: 5Plus Architects

It will create up to 1,000 new homes – including affordable homes – three new community parks and public spaces, along with shops, cafes, restaurants, and offices.

Bradford Council leader, Councillor 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.”

Credit: 5Plus Architects

The latest progress follows the launch of the Government’s Devolution White Paper earlier this week – which it claims is “a key way to kickstart economic growth.”

Bradford City Village is one of 15 places identified in the Strategic Place Partnership between the West Yorkshire Combined Authority and Homes England, which aims to unlock complex residential regeneration schemes and boost 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 Development Agreement now in place, ECF will work with the council to progress a planning application expected to be submitted in spring 2025, following a second phase of public consultation.

Credit: 5Plus Architects

Sir Michael Lyons, chair of ECF, added: “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.”

The wider project team for Bradford City Village includes 5plus Architects, re-form Landscape Architecture, Avison Young, Cushman & Wakefield and Turner & Townsend.

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