Bradford’s City Park has become an integral part of the city – it really is the park at the heart.

There was some cynicism and doubt when work began, and the delays that affected its opening date caused some concern.

But since it was officially opened last year, it has rightly won a place in the heart of the vast majority of Bradford citizens.

It offers a fantastic open space in the middle of the city, and the breadth and diversity of events showcased here have won over all but the most cynical of doubters and naysayers.

And it has also picked up an incredible amount of national awards for its location and design in the 18 months or so since it finally got up and running.

The £24m cost may still seem to some a high price to pay, but the role it has played as a focal point for Bradford cannot be over-estimated.

The latest events unveiled today show that in that short time, it has become a fixture in the events calendar.

Bradford is incredibly lucky to have such a facility, and while there are many examples in the city of things that need improving, City Park is not one of them.

We should cherish and value this wonderful piece of urban landscape, and make sure we all continue to give it the use and support it deserves.

City Park belongs to the people of Bradford, and it will become a fitting focal point as other things start to turn around for the city over the next two years.