A group of property professionals received a guided tour of ongoing projects in Bradford city centre.

Bradford Chamber of Commerce Property Forum, led by the Chair, Marianne McCallum of WYG, organised a ‘Walk & Talk’ event for businesses to get up-to-speed with some of the city’s construction and regeneration schemes. Council representatives, led by Assistant Director for Economic Development Shelagh O’Neill, were also in attendance to help brief the 30-strong group. The 90-minute tour began in Little Germany, and stopping points included The Broadway, City Park and Sunbridge Wells – some of the city’s recent successes – but also ongoing projects such as High Point, Oastler Market and Darley Street. The tour concluded at The Lofts luxury complex in Little Germany, a scheme being delivered by Bridge Atlantic Investments.

Marianne said afterwards: “It’s useful to get these coal-face updates on what’s happening, even for those discussing these things on a regular basis. It shows not only that the world hasn’t come to a standstill due to Brexit, but also that there is interest within the property and investment community, and commitment from the local authority to keep up the city centre regeneration programme. The city’s profile has changed in recent years; its potential for growth is being recognised beyond its boundaries as represented at MIPIM and recent investments. The event brought together people who know the city well with others less familiar.”

Faye Hutchinson of Evora Construction added: “Bradford has an overwhelming amount of un-tapped development potential. It was fascinating to see the abundance of ornate stone-built Victorian buildings in the city. The growth and development plans are impressive too, with the new indoor market being planned, a national events and concert centre in the former Odeon cinema and new housing for the site of the former market. The luxury Lofts apartment development sets a new standard, and it would be fantastic to see further developments like this to bring people back to live in the city once more.”

Representatives from companies in Sheffield, York and Leeds, as well as Bradford, attended the event, which also included members of ‘Women in Property’.