Business owners in the city centre say they are starting to feel the first positive impacts of the Broadway development.

Craig Hunt, owner of fashion retailer Infinities in Hustlergate, said the business moved from its site on Kirkgate in February to maximise the benefits of being close to the Westfield site.

“We got in quickly to get this unit before anyone else,” he said. “We expect it to be a bit quiet for the next year or so, but we’ve moved for the long-term benefits.

“We had considered going in the centre itself, but decided to go on the doorstep instead.

“We had a prime location before, so moving down here so early has been a bit of a risk, but we should be all right.”

Antonio Barbiero, owner of Pizza Pieces restaurant in Market Street, was forced to move in 2006 from his previous premises on the corner of Bank Street to make way for the Westfield development.

Despite nearly having to close his business three times waiting for the project to start, he is finally optimistic that the impact of the new development will allow him to grow the business again.

“My business would have done far better if I hadn’t had to move. It felt like I was being penalised for something that was never going to happen,” he said.

“I am sure Broadway will be a big help now. It is a large-scale project that should bring a lot more footfall. Already I can see things improving, and the business has stabilised. If it had carried on going down I would have had to leave Bradford.

“After waiting for eight years, I’m glad something is finally happening.”