Plans revealed to demolish fire-hit Greenwood centre

Emergency services have dealt with a number of fires at the derelict Greenwood centre on Wood Lane, Swain House, recently - with the latest being reported on Sunday afternoon.

West Yorkshire Police said it was investigating the blazes.

Labour Councillor Si Cunningham, who represents Bolton and Undercliffe on Bradford Council, told the Telegraph & Argus he was "furious that some very selfish individuals are choosing to put local people and emergency services at risk of significant harm".

Councillor Si Cunningham has raised concerns about the situation at the site

The land is owned by Bradford Council, with Inspired Neighbourhoods - a group which aims to improve the community - holding a long-term lease for the site.

Inspired Neighbourhoods - which had planned to refurbish the old Greenwood centre into a community hub offering vital services such as mental health support - has confirmed it plans to demolish the fire-ravaged building and is awaiting formal approval from the council. 

John Steele, chair of Inspired Neighbourhoods' board of trustees, said: "We share the concerns expressed by Cllr Cunningham and the local residents regarding the recurring incidents at the site. We are deeply troubled by the disregard for public safety demonstrated by these incidents and fully support the efforts of West Yorkshire Police in its investigations.

"Regarding ownership of the land, it's important to clarify that Bradford Council owns the land, and Inspired Neighbourhoods holds a long-term lease for the site. We are grateful for the council's support throughout this process and are in ongoing communication with them regarding our plans for the site.

"I can confirm that our intention is to demolish the existing building, and we have been proactive in seeking formal consent from the council as part of the legal process. We are pleased to report that the council has been very supportive of our request and we await formal approval so we may proceed with the demolition.

"In addition to our efforts to secure the necessary approvals, we have been continually engaging with local residents to understand their concerns and keep them updated on our progress. We recognize the importance of community involvement in this process and remain committed to transparency and open communication.

How the building looked last week after a series of fires (Image: Newsquest/Mike Simmonds)

"Despite our best efforts to secure the premises, individuals have persistently attempted to gain access, causing damage to the property. We are deeply disappointed by these actions, which not only pose a risk to public safety but also hinder our efforts to revitalise the site for the benefit of the community.

"We remain committed to working collaboratively with local authorities, residents and stakeholders to address this issue swiftly and effectively. Our priority is to ensure the safety of the community and to advance our mission of enhancing the well-being and cohesion of the Bradford community."

Cllr Cunningham said in response: "I welcome the swift response from Inspired Neighbourhoods and am supportive of their efforts to get the site safe and secure as swiftly as possible. I'll do everything I can to ensure a speedy resolution."

Police and fire service comment on situation

Inspector Paul Riley, of Bradford East police, said: "We are aware of a number of anti-social behaviour related issues in the area and there are investigations ongoing. 

"We continue to work closely with partners to tackle these issues and fully support the councillor in securing the building and making it safe. 

"I would urge anyone with any information about any incidents in the local area to come forward to assist with our investigation.

"Contact the police via 101, quoting crime reference 13240107835, or via www.westyorkshire.police.uk/livechat."

Bradford District Commander Benjy Bush, of West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service, said "Arson is a serious crime which takes up valuable resources, and puts our firefighters at risk unnecessarily.

"We're working with our partner agencies, including West Yorkshire Police, to try and resolve this matter."

A resident, who asked not to be named, told the Telegraph & Argus she was "fed up" of fires at the site.

"The emergency services have enough to be dealing with without having to put out fire after fire here," she added.

"It's a regular occurrence.

"I've had enough of it."