A NEW independent micro-cinema and lobby bar in the heart of Bradford’s Independent Quarter has been granted planning permission in a boost to the city’s status as a UNESCO City of Film.

Working Title Cinema at the junction of North Parade, Manor Row and Hamm Strasse, will be a modern 40-seat picture house, screening a range of classic, modern and independent movies.

David Wilson, director of Bradford UNESCO City of Film, said: “We are delighted that the micro-cinema has now been given planning permission. It will make a great addition to the growing Independent Quarter in Bradford and to the film offer for people across the Yorkshire region. We look forward to supporting the project as it continues to develop.”

Bradford-based businessman Roy Davison, who is leading the project team, said: “It’s great news that the planning approval has been granted as we are conscious that the International Film Summit will be a massive event for Bradford and we are very keen to be involved.

“We want everyone in Bradford to feel engaged with the great things going on in our city right now. Setting up an Independent Film Board will enable us to draw input from a diverse group of Bradfordians, informing us better to offer a programme that is more accessible to all.”

Susan Hinchcliffe, Bradford council's portfolio holder for culture said she was please at another boost to city centre life.

"This will be a great addition to the cultural scene in the city centre. North Parade has an increasing number of creative and leisure businesses opening up.

"I applaud the dynamic business owners who are investing there and contributing to its success."

The project will create a number of permanent jobs including a cinema manager and cinema assistants, plus front-of-house staff in the venue’s lobby bar.

Recruiting the cinema manager will be an urgent priority as it is such a specialist role. The manager will lead on programming and will also chair an Independent Film Board made up of Bradford people who will help to decide what will be screened at the cinema.

The aim is now to get the cinema ready to open in time for the International Film Summit in March when Bradford will welcome leading film and television industry professionals and institutions from across the globe.

The development will also create work in the construction industry, as an extensive refurbishment is required to convert the former electricity showroom building to the appropriate high standard as a top-class film theatre, arts space and bar.

Designer David Craig, of David Craig Design Consultancy, Saltaire, welcomed the planning decision. He said: “It's fantastic for us to be associated with such an exciting project for Bradford.

"The renovations will greatly improve the appearance of the building and surrounding area, creating an attractive gateway into the Independent Quarter, with its fast-growing leisure scene.

"We have prepared detailed designs for the fit-out and we’re now looking forward to getting started on site in early 2015.”