The Westfield development is obviously pivotal to Bradford’s regeneration, but the lack of progress on that site can often overshadow the fact that the city already has a bright, modern-looking shopping centre – from the inside at least.

But while the Kirkgate Centre is fine once you cross the threshold, its exterior is somewhat less exciting.

It is, of course, a product of its era but few would disagree that most Seventies architecture has failed to stand the test of time, even if it was considered ‘state of the art’ when it was built.

The assertion from retail expert John Bywater, of Caddick Developments, that it needs a makeover is worthy of consideration.

Only on Monday this column referred to some of the excellent projects that have started in Bradford and pointed out that it was vital that impetus was maintained.

Improvements to the outward appearance of the Kirkgate centre could help do just that.

Imagine the transformation some Yorkshire stone cladding and a dash of imagination could bring about, for example.

However, it is easy to say what should be done but much harder to make it happen.

In this current economic climate it is unrealistic to expect the owners of the Kirkgate shopping centre to fund such a project on their own but, as the benefits would be far reaching, perhaps it is the sort of scheme that could attract public funding, too, from local, regional and national coffers.