Second Bradford launch for Forsters Bistro & Deli

A 100-seat restaurant and bar has opened in Bradford and created a number of apprenticeships and training opportunities for catering students.

Forsters Bistro & Deli in Centenary Square has been launched by the city’s Forster Community College.

The move follows the success of a bistro the institution has operated at its base in Captain Street since January 2012 as part of its bid to reduce reliance on public funding.

The new venture has created 16 full-time equivalent jobs and is providing work experience and training opportunities for catering students at the college’s chefs’ academy, as well as nine apprenticeships.

Forsters Bistro & Deli was one of the first businesses to benefit from the £35m Growth Zone project, administered by Bradford Council.

The project aims to enhance skills and encourage investment in Bradford by providing rate rebates for new and existing businesses that create jobs in a designated city centre area.
     
Nick Chamberlain, a partner in law firm Gordons’ commercial property team, advised the college on the licence for alterations and 15-year lease on the premises, rented from Leeds-based property development and investment company Rushbond.

Mr Chamberlain said: “We’re delighted to have played a key role in bringing such an important and worthy venture about. The restaurant and bar could have gone to Leeds but the college wanted to develop business and provide employment opportunities in its home city and the Growth Zone has made this possible.”