gumption blog
We love the park concept of making Bradford city centre more welcoming to families and our visitors. It's also Gumption's back garden too!
One plea - as a dad of 3, I just hope they include an enclosed playground for little kids too. We'll be shopping in Bradford much more (Westfield or no Westfield).
Click HERE to see the video and tell us what you think.
-
- Brilliant to see the demolition guys on site at the old police station - many of whom live in Bradford.
Talking to the Projects Director of Birse, the main contractor, there is a public and private committment to maximise local contractors and work opportunities wherever possible and these are being monitored by the council. This is often very difficult with European legislation and the need for these major contractors to make their money. It's no different to a plasterer coming in to your home - you want them in, to do their work and then move on to the next job. They want that too.
Well done Birse for at least engaging with the process.We'll keep eyes & ears open for any City Park contracts coming up!
-
- Hi Matt,
Thanks for this. I've just spoken to the council and have updated the link. They're adding lots more information.I like the whole concept of bringing Bradford families closer to where the execitive powers are being made. It's about engagement and raising aspiration too.
But again, simple stuff like swings, roundabouts and other classic playground activities for the little ones are essential. They should be inventive in design too. The revamping of Norfolk Gardens would be ideal for this and add another dynamic to the whole site.
-
- I was in sheffield a few weeks ago and saw their small fountains and it was a great focal point, kids were paddling around them, it was fun. Tried the video link but the council seem to have removed the page this was linked to.
-
- Met a City Park officer yesterday who gave some more info. They are still on course to move on site in October by taking down the bridge at Hall Ings and carrying out minor works. They fully start redeveloping the main area, including knocking down half of the police station, after the Xmas trade in January (to help retailers).
The City Park will have 100 fountains, fog effects, lighting effects, be drained weekly for cleaning and have capacity for up to 10,000 people at events.
It will also contain a Media Pod and Pavilion building with a retail outlet.
It will be the largest water feature in Europe and is expected to bring in 2.2m extra people into the city centre.
Phase 2 will be to focus on the gardens behind City Hall and phase 3 is to develop a private sector Business Park to encourage more large companies to relocate themselves here.
Short-term pain, long-term gain. Get it built!