Four-storey arts venue planned for City of Culture

Plans have been submitted for a theatre and arts space to stage events during Bradford’s City of Culture year.

According to an application to Bradford Council, redevelopment of the former Marks & Spencer storage building on Piccadilly would be “vital to the success” of the Bradford 2025 programme.

Bradford Culture Company took possession of the building – which was linked to the old Marks & Spencer on Darley Street by a bridge - last month.

The plans state: “This building has been identified as one of the key sites that will be capable of delivering BD25’s ambitious programme throughout 2025, but also lead to a legacy of arts and culture for the years after."

The former department store was demolished to make way for Darley Street Market, which is due to open next year.

According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, the storage building was part of a collection of properties purchased by Bradford Council as part of the market development, and has been used by contractors working on the market.

The building, which will be accessible from Duke Street, will include a 200-seat theatre on the ground floor, a gallery on the first floor, and arts studios on the second and third floors.

The basement will become an event space that can be used by up to 250 people and an outdoor yard will host food and drink vendors during major events.

According to the planning application: “The venue will become a hub for arts and culture activities throughout 2025 and create a legacy in the sector for many years after.

“The building is currently empty and due to its unique nature is not particularly well suited to future conversion for commercial or residential uses.

“This is therefore a fantastic opportunity to develop the site for community-based uses and create a long-lasting legacy.”

A decision on the application is expected next month.

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