An industrial development could be built on a long-derelict Bradford site if ambitious new plans are approved.
The large, empty plot of land next to Legrams Mill is the subject for a new planning ap-plication that would see 17 industrial, storage and distribution units – a total of 5,220 square metres of new employment space, built on the site.
The units would range in size from 180 square metres to 900 square metres, and applicants Dadibhais Ltd say the units will help with the “chronic” shortage of such facilities in the city.
They argue that while Bradford has plenty of vacant Victorian mills and 20th century buildings, there is a lack of modern units attractive to businesses.
The site, which lies between Legrams Lane and Woodhead Road, remains vacant despite a history of redevelopment plans.
In the past 20 years applications for a mixed development of shops and business units and 66 flats and four shops have been approved – but development has never materialised.
The application says: “It is clear that the site detracts from the visual amenity of the area.”
When the Telegraph & Argus visited the area on Tuesday, there were several horses grazing on the land.
The planning application says: “The land has been vacant for decades, and has unfortu-nately been subjected to fly tipping and antisocial behaviour, making it unsightly.
Plan for new industrial site in Bradford is approved
“We have been working hard to look at ways to develop the vacant land and help regen-erate the area.
“Having explored various options, the site offers a great opportunity for much needed modern business /warehouse storage units.
“This will create business space and employment opportunities for the local community.”
Referring to the need for the units, the plans say: “There is a large supply of older mill type accommodation in Bradford and the majority of occupiable industrial stock in the District was built in the late twentieth century early 2000s and therefore, there is a lack of quality accommodation available to meet modern demand.
“With a lack of suitable medium sized space occupiers are struggling to find suitable space to expand into. This is having a knock-on effect, with smaller units not being released and therefore not freeing up space for micro-SMEs and start-ups at the bottom end of the market.
“For smaller occupiers there is a chronic shortage of freehold space and signs that some market shortages are caused simply because larger property is not available. As such, occupiers are taking multiple smaller units.
“The concern for the Council is that either existing or prospective businesses could look for premises elsewhere outside of the District if more sites are not made available for employment use and deliver better stock.”
The development would include 85 car parking spaces and 25 cycle parking spaces.
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