Plans submitted for former Bradford Camera Exchange building

Bradford Camera Exchange, which had been a functioning business in the city for more than 85 years, shut in March 2022.

The closure occurred after the death of its owner and managing director John Greenwood the previous year.

At the time of its closing, the shop was described as an ‘institution’ in Bradford.

Bradford Camera Exchange shut last year (Image: Newsquest)

In April, an application was submitted to convert the North Parade and Northgate building into four apartments, three one-beds and one two-bed, and two retail units with new shopfront and window openings.

The validation date, when the plans become official, was on Monday, June 5.

Bradford Council documents list the applicants as Dewsbury company Forest Hill Investment LTD.

The agency is acting on behalf of Usman Hafejee of Bradford company 53 Degrees North UK LTD.

The plans involve both sides of the building (Image: Newsquest)

The application's Design, Access and Heritage Statement said: "The proposed use of the building as living accommodation on the upper levels, with commercial use at ground floor level, is an ideal constituent of the future of this part of the city.

"It will bring much-needed housing accommodation and bring back two retail units, adding to the vibrancy of the city centre."

The building is three-storey and lies within the city centre conservation area but is not listed.

The property has two entrances - one on North Parade and the other on Northgate.

The Northgate entrance overlooks the Grade 2 listed Oastler statue.

Apartments would fill the first and second floors (Image: Newsquest)

The building's last known use was a retail shop on the ground floor and office and storage on the first and second floors, which were used as ancillary to the shop. 

The works are largely alterations and repairs within the existing envelope of the building, some external alterations will also be implemented. 

The statement added: "It is considered that the proposed re-use of an existing vacant property will be in accordance with the aims of the council Bradford City Centre Townscape Heritage Scheme to increase the vibrancy and create a high quality, attractive environment for people to live, work and visit.

"It will bring additional footfall to the area and also create local employment directly and indirectly through suppliers etc

"And create essential new affordable housing within a sustainable location.

"Given the minimal impact, it is not felt that the proposals will have any negative effect on the character and appearance of the building and its contribution to the conservation area."