A BRADFORD Councillor says the development of a city centre site is likely to be “some way off.”

But the delay could lead to an even better development on the key site - it is claimed.

Yesterday the Telegraph & Argus reported how developers British Land - which owns a large site near Forster Square Rail Station, has admitted its planned Forster Square Leisure development was “no longer viable.”

The scheme, which was granted planning permission in 2016, would see a complex made up of a cinema, gym and leisure facilities and restaurants built on the site.

But work never started - and permission has since expired.

Developer finally admits city centre leisure plan ‘no longer viable’

In a letter to the city’s Civic Society, British Land said they were now considering future uses for the site, and would discuss their plans with community groups and Bradford Council.

In response to the news, Councillor Alex Ross-Shaw, Portfolio Holder for Regeneration, Planning and Transport, on Bradford Council said: “In the current circumstances it’s probably fair to say we’re some way off seeing this site redeveloped.

"In fact, we may be able to see a better quality development once key projects like Darley Street Market, Bradford Live and One City Park are all up and running and driving even more footfall into the city centre.

"Therefore, I’d encourage British Land to work with the Civic Society and other like-minded groups to consider some quality meanwhile uses that can make a really positive contribution to the city centre.”