Council reveals preferred bidder to deliver the redevelopment of Bradford’s new market

Bradford Council has revealed the name of the main contractor appointed as preferred bidder to deliver the multimillion pound development of the city’s modern, spacious new market on Darley Street, with the work being awarded to Kier.

The West Yorkshire-based company will be the lead partner in the regeneration scheme working alongside the project’s architect to bring the plans to life.

The project, set to commence in spring 2020, includes the demolition of several vacant stores, which will be replaced with a new, multi-storey market building with several entrances and a public square to connect Piccadilly and Darley Street.

The facade will feature large glazed windows to maximise visibility and create a light, open feel.

Councillor Alex Ross-Shaw, Portfolio Holder for Regeneration, Planning and Transport, said: “With our recent announcements on working with Muse Developments for One City Park and Morgan Sindell for Forster Square station, this really shows that momentum is building in Bradford with some fantastic projects all moving forward at pace.”

Phil McDowell, operations director at Kier Regional Building Northern, commented on the appointment: “This vital regeneration project is the largest to be undertaken in Bradford and will provide a dynamic, vibrant and diverse shopping location for visitors. We’re thrilled to be appointed as preferred bidder to work with Bradford Council and are committed to delivering a project that benefits the community whilst acknowledging the heritage and history of Darley Street as a historic market street.”

This latest win for Kier reinforces its position as a leading provider of redevelopment projects and follows on from its appointment to deliver the £30m Manor Street regeneration scheme in Braintree.

The £21m Bradford Markets project, which is set to offer high quality food and non-food items, with a dynamic new public space for open air events and outdoor stalls, is part of a broad package of initiatives designed to revitalise the area, whilst boosting investment, growth and employment across the Bradford district.