Work begins on Bradford arts centre redevelopment

Yorkshire-based Simpson Construction have been appointed as main contractor for the multi-million-pound redevelopment of Bradford’s Kala Sangam arts centre.

The project will see the creation of a new theatre, five new dance studios, a new central staircase and a permanent home for volunteer-led community radio station Bradford Community Broadcasting (BCB).

The introduction of a new entrance and two new lifts will ensure the building is fully accessible for the first time in its 140-year history. The building is scheduled to reopen as Bradford Arts Centre in Summer 2025, as a landmark moment in Bradford’s year as UK City of Culture.

The scheme’s project manager is Turner & Townsend, and it is part of a design team that also includes Halliday Clark Architects and SGM Structural Design.

Jas Athwal, Chair of Kala Sangam, said: “After many years of planning, we are delighted that work has finally started to transform our home into a fully accessible space, ready to welcome artists, audiences, our local communities and businesses in 2025, as Bradford Arts Centre.

“I would like to thank our funders – the Department of Culture Media and Sport and Arts Council England, The National Lottery Heritage Fund, The Garfield Weston Foundation and Bradford Metropolitan District Council – for supporting the redevelopment.”

Andy Gatenby from Simpson, said: “Simpson are excited and honoured to be working with the client Kala Sangam on the redevelopment of their cultural hub into the newly named Bradford Arts Centre. The project which aims to extensively reconfigure and upgrade the existing buildings facilities, will continue to be a great asset to the community.”