THE group that will run the under-construction Bradford Live venue has confirmed it will not be opening until next year.

The project, to turn a 1930s city centre former cinema and theatre into a 3,800 capacity live music venue, is one of the biggest regeneration schemes in the city and key work has already been carried out, including to the ballroom roof.

Originally the venue was due to open late last year. But in Summer it was announced that a number of issues, including the discovery that some parts of the building needed to be replaced rather than refurbished, meant the opening date had been knocked back to Autumn 2023.

The project has had its challenges, including a fire at the former Odeon building last week, with firefighters scrambled to the scene.

It has since emerged that the damage sustained is thought to be "limited" following the fire.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Firefighters cutting away copper on one of the domes to tackle a fire Firefighters cutting away copper on one of the domes to tackle a fire

The quick response of the fire service is though to have saved the building. 

While much of the work to transform the building is likely to be completed this year, it has now been revealed that the fit out needed to make it an operational concert venue will not take place until early 2024, when the building is handed over to the NEC group.

The organisation recently began advertising for its first Bradford-based members of staff to run the venue.

When asked about the opening date, a spokesman for the NEC Group told the Telegraph & Argus: "We are excited to be moving forwards with our mobilisation and recruiting for our General Manager - the first Bradford based member of staff, who will be responsible for operational delivery and filling that all important event diary for Bradford Live.

“Ahead of the venue being handed over to us in early 2024 for the interior fit-out, we will be announcing many more positive milestones, including more job opportunities, an opening date and the talent booked for our first season.

“The public can register for future updates via our website."

Bradford Telegraph and Argus:

Bradford Live has been included in a list of “key achievements” in the District in a report going before Bradford Council’s Executive on Tuesday. It says the venue will be “the biggest ‘midsize’ venue in the country outside London.”

Other projects mentioned in the report include:

  • One City Park, described as the “first new office building to be developed in Bradford for 25 years.” It will be based on the edge of City Park, opposite Bradford Live. It is due to open late Summer.
  • Darley Street Market, a new market hall that is replacing Oastler and Kirkgate Markets. That is due to open in Autumn.