PLANS for an empty city centre building will add to the “vibrancy” of Bradford’s ‘top of town’ area, according to a new application.

The proposals, for the former Cooker Centre in Rawson Square, could see the building transformed into a cafe bar, with a snooker/pool room area on the first floor.

Previous plans for the building were rejected by Bradford Council over fears that the vitality and diversity of the area would be harmed.

Planners said there seemed to be little evidence the business would open during the day, and this would further contribute to the North Parade area being a place that only attracted crowds in the evening.

In light of the concerns raised, Haseeb Raja has submitted a fresh bid to bring the building back into use.

A design and access statement says: “Our client has taken time to reflect upon the comments received and has re-evaluated his business plan.”

It outlines the building would have new awnings, to be drawn down during trading hours, to create a “visibly trading and active shopfront”.

Revised opening hours have also been proposed. The building would open at 10am and would trade as a cafe bar during lunchtime, with a food offer up until 9pm at night.

MORE TOP STORIES

During the evening, it would operate as a bar and “quality drinking establishment”, with a games room added to the first floor to “provide further leisure amenity”. There would also be an area selling ground coffee and local delicatessen-style food items used in the cafe.

“It is proposed to open from 10am for coffee and brunch, these extra hours’ trading will contribute positively to the levels of activity and vibrancy of the top of town area, and with canopies and on-street dining area, will add further animation to the street,” the application adds.

“It is considered that the proposals for change of use from retail to leisure, despite being against the letter of policy, will have a positive impact upon the character of the conservation area by creating an active day and night time use for an otherwise empty building.”

“It is considered that the proposals will contribute to the independent café bar scene on North Parade.”

It adds that proposed amendments to the building are “minimal” with “positive additions”.