Social enterprise aims to write new chapter for historic city district
Following completion of a round of funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, a team led by Impact Hub Bradford has revealed plans to regenerate the city’s historic mercantile quarter, Little Germany.
Home to 55 Grade II listed buildings, the area is known as having the highest concentration of protected buildings per square mile.
Impact Hub Bradford, a social enterprise, has led efforts to help revitalise the area, thanks to a collaborative project with a newly formed stakeholder group.
Credit: Stevie Campbell Creative
The steering group – which is headed by Kamran Rashid, CEO of Impact Hub Bradford and chaired by James Mason, CEO of the West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce – was formed with a focus on placemaking, business development, and the integration of local communities.
In partnership with businesses, local organisations, and cultural enterprises, the team aims to bring both the public and businesses back to the area.
Rashid said: “Work that will help drive a prosperous future for Little Germany is progressing at pace, with a clear vision to develop the area into a vibrant and thriving part of Bradford’s city centre.
“The collective efforts of the steering group, supported by a significant pot of funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund will ensure Little Germany’s future will be both sustainable and community driven.
“As Bradford’s future unfolds, Little Germany will undoubtedly be a key player in shaping the city’s heritage and economic landscape for generations to come.”
Mason added: “Little Germany’s social and architectural heritage provides a perfect backdrop for innovation, making it the perfect office location, studio or workspace.
“The buildings here need to be celebrated and protected, making the area ideal for forward-thinking organisations like the Chamber and Impact Hub Bradford.
“This blend of old and new makes the area an attractive location for growing businesses and a promising opportunity for the hospitality sector.
“This blend of history, culture, and modern-day appeal ensures Little Germany will continue to attract both visitors and businesses, contributing to the long-term growth and prosperity of Bradford.”
The project team will be rolling out new initiatives over the coming months to help reinvigorate interest in the historic quarter, including Bradford Civic Society blue plaques, improved wayfinding, heritage walks and self-guided trails, public art, and a new website to help promote Little Germany as a destination.
The project has also involved working with local designer Jimmy Smith – who recently created Bradford’s striking new street and boundary sign designs – to produce a new eye-catching visual identity for the area.
