Reaction to announcement that new operator will take on Bradford Live
THE announcement of a new operator for Bradford Live will hopefully bring a 'frustrating' period for the city to an end – according to an opposition Councillor.
On Monday it was announced that Trafalgar Entertainment would operate the £50m venue, and could have it open and hosting events as early as autumn.
The announcement came five months after the original operators the NEC Group pulled out, leaving the future of the major regeneration scheme in doubt.
The announcement that the venue is now moving forward has been universally welcomed.
Councillor Rebecca Poulsen, leader of the Conservative and Queensbury Independent Group on Bradford Council said: "This is great news as this building has been sitting empty for months with a complete lack of information for the public over what was happening with it.
'I'm sure everyone welcomes this news and looks forward to the building opening and tickets going on sale for events to come.
'This building has had around £50 million of taxpayer's money put into it and has been sitting closed for many months.
'There are many questions to answer over how this project has been managed by Bradford Council and the veil of secrecy over it.
"It has been a very frustrating period, and I hope we will shortly hear details of what entertainment will be coming to the venue."
A spokesman for the West Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce said: 'The Chamber congratulates new operator Trafalgar Entertainment on successfully winning the tender process to operate the iconic city centre venue.'
Mark Cowgill, president of the Chamber, added: 'The news that a new operator has been announced for Bradford Live is a fantastic development for the city.
'Bradford Live will provide the whole country with a world-class 3,000-seater venue that will attract the biggest events in entertainment and pull in an audience of thousands every year.
'As Bradford's year as City of Culture swings into full force, the news could not have come at a better time.'
Bradford East MP Imran Hussain said: 'I have always been a strong advocate for Bradford Live and the vital role it plays in our city's cultural and economic future, which is why I'm incredibly proud to have secured £4 million from the previous government to ensure this historic and iconic building is given a new lease of life."
"This investment has not only preserved the heritage of Bradford Live, but also positioned it as a key landmark in the heart of our city's regeneration efforts.
"This transformation will be a catalyst for growth, bringing new opportunities for local businesses, creating jobs, and attracting visitors from far and wide.
"As City of Culture kicks off, I look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on our community for decades to come."
Bradford South MP Judith Cummins said: 'The announcement of a contractor to run Bradford Live is hugely welcome news.
"I am looking forward to seeing this stunning venue open and hosting the world-class performances and events that Bradford deserves.'
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