THE Oastler Shopping Centre, formerly known as the John Street Market, has stood proud in Bradford city centre for almost a century.

Despite being tinged with a slight bit of sadness, many understood that its demolition for the City Village was needed to modernise Bradford.

The development will see over 1,000 homes built over three sites – Kirkgate Centre, a number of car parks off Westgate, and Oastler Market.

We thought it would be good to walk around Oastler to see its current state.

As a youngster, I enjoyed visiting both Oastler and Kirkgate Market to see what bargains could be achieved.

But as times changed, so did shopping habits, with the draw for contemporary generations becoming elaborate, franchise-filled shopping centres.

This was evident by the number of shutters I saw before even entering the market.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Fountains Cafe shut last year after 55 yearsFountains Cafe shut last year after 55 years (Image: Newsquest)

Once through the main entrance, more emptiness was seen. In particular the once-thriving Fountains Cafe sits vacant.

A look inside was very nostalgic. The seats, tables and counters still remain in place despite the business shutting after 55 years in January 2023.

A walk into the main bit of the market was met with several customers frequenting a range of different stalls.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Many units are emptyMany units are empty (Image: Newsquest)Clothing, groceries, fresh meat, appliances, furniture, and eateries were all spotted during my walk-around.

Footfall was steady enough but with it being a Friday lunchtime I expected it to be slightly busier.

The businesses with the most trade included Taplins Butchers, Dale Farm Foods, and Roswithas Delicatessen.

Given the time of day, understandably the various eateries attracted the majority of the custom.

Bradfordians and people from further afield enjoyed a variety of cuisines on offer, showing the market still proves a popular place to grab some lunch for those in the city centre. 

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: The market has stood proud in Bradford since 1930The market has stood proud in Bradford since 1930 (Image: Newsquest)As I left via the exit on Rawson Road, there was a nice touch on the walls with pictures and messages from stall owners and customers of the past.

It will be a sad day when the Oastler Shopping Centre does close its doors.

Memories to last a lifetime have clearly been created and its stalls are still used by many.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Photos of the market from years gone-byPhotos of the market from years gone-by (Image: Newsquest)

Following my walk around though, it is clear that a more modern facility was needed for the long-standing businesses to grow.

Hopefully the new Darley Street Market will provide that.

Its opening is expected to come later this year.