Report this comment
  • "I don't know the area. But I agree with previous posts that reference that the oppprtune time for locals to take issue with the matter was when the land was sold and permission subsequently granted for the gates. There is perhaps a case for the council to look at how it publicises such matters and to ensure that any consultation is meaningful.

    I have to agree that anything that is reported about this area of Bradford degenerates into a rant about drug dealers and the great uninsured. I am sure the area has a lot going for it, some successful restaurants for a start.

    It is unhelpful to trade in stereotypes about any community. Everyone is entitled to express their opinion and this isn't an English lesson but I think often the message is "lost in translation" when expressed as text speak. It also does little to dispel myths and assumptions about an illiterate underclass.

    As British Muslims of asian origin, my partner and I regularly work 100 plus hours a week on our own business so that we can build a better future for our children and be positive role models. It is a social care business that looks after the vulnerable in all communities so certainly not a self-serving interest.

    I have little affinity with a nation that I visited twice in my lifetime and I think there comes a point where people who are undecided about national loyalties, have to choose. Whchever country wins (or loses) should be the one they reside in, abide by the rules and contribute to the success of all communities resident there.

    Many of us have made our allegiances very clear and implicit in the full part we play in society. We are good citizens, fair employers, taxpayers, contributing to the economic and social economy.

    Such a shame though to be knocked for the actions of a minority."
  • This field is mandatory
  • This field is mandatory
  • Please note we will not accept reports with HTML tags or URLs in them.


  • Enter the above word in the box below

Please be fair, courteous and respectful to the views of others so we can build a vibrant community in a safe online environment. You are personal liable for your comments and action will be taken against anyone who offends, ridicules or posts malicious and damaging views. If you wish to complain, please contact us.

Bradford Sikh temple defends Barkerend area gates installation

Gurdwara President Ranbir Singh Gurdwara President Ranbir Singh

Sikhs who put up big gates in a Bradford street have defended their move by saying they had the community’s best interests at heart.

President of the Gobind Singh Gurdwara, Ranbir Singh, said it was never the temple’s intention to upset anyone or cause any bitter feelings.

He said the reason for the gates was to make the street safer by keeping drug dealers out and by creating a set place for car parking for the temple, rather than people parking elsewhere.

On Tuesday the Telegraph & Argus reported how people living in and around Ventnor Street were angry the pair of 6ft blue padlocked iron gates had appeared suddenly.

Claims were made that the gates were dividing the community by blocking traffic access and left just enough room for one person on foot to squeeze through.

About 20 people turned up at ward councillor Imran Khan’s surgery to complain and demand answers.

But John Rowley, Bradford Council's principal engineer, has since made it clear the Guru Gobind Singh Temple had been given permission back in 2009 to make that part of Ventnor Street private access and into a car park – no objections were made at that time.

Allegations of the temple splitting the community by putting up the gates has offended its members, said Mr Singh.

He added: “Our community is not happy. We have good relationships with the Bradford community as a whole. We think of ourself as Bradfordians now – not Indians. We have never tried to split any community, we have many friends.

“We don’t want any trouble. We are wanting to make things better in that area. We bought that land from the Council so it is now private and we have to protect it. As well as blocking out the drug dealing that was happening in that corner it will cause less congestion with parking on the streets when we have our celebrations.

“Also, because the land is now private we are liable if anyone had an accident on it and we don’t want to be sued. Those are the only reasons why we put up the gates.”

Inspector Andy Gallant said he was aware the application for the gates had been made some time ago. He added: “Since then, there has been a significant amount of work undertaken to tackle anti-social behaviour and related issues in the area.

“In the last six weeks alone, we have recorded a 60 per cent reduction in calls relating to anti-social behaviour in that area.”

Local Businesses

About cookies

We want you to enjoy your visit to our website. That's why we use cookies to enhance your experience. By staying on our website you agree to our use of cookies. Find out more about the cookies we use.

I agree