MPs in the Bradford district have been reacting to the latest developments in the Bradford Live saga. 

Earlier today, it was confirmed the Birmingham-based NEC Group had withdrawn from the £50.5 million taxpayer-backed project "with immediate effect".

A joint statement on behalf of the NEC Group and Bradford Council said: "This follows a decision by the NEC Group that the venue will be better served by an alternative operator.

"Following a strategic review of its business, the NEC Group will focus on its existing operations in the Birmingham area.

"Bradford Council and the NEC Group have agreed settlement terms to release NEC from the contract that was in place for them to operate the venue."

The Telegraph & Argus asked Bradford Council for further details on settlement terms agreed - but no response has yet been received.

Bradford Live and Bradford Council said a process was now underway to appoint a new operator for the venue, which had been due to open as a "world-class" entertainment centre this autumn. 

It is still not known when Bradford Live will open - but Councillor Susan Hinchcliffe, leader of Bradford Council, said: "We are aiming to have the venue operational in 2025 to host events as part of Bradford's year as UK City of Culture."

Reacting to the news, Robbie Moore, Conservative MP for Keighley and Ilkley, said: "Bradford Live has now become a multi-million pound symbol of Bradford Council mismanagement. 

"Under no circumstances should taxpayers be forced to spend a penny more on this project while Labour leaders in Bradford raise taxes on local people and slash essential services across the district.

"£50 million of hard-earned taxpayers' cash has already been spent on this project, signed off under a shroud of secrecy by our Labour leaders - who have failed to be open and honest with the public throughout this saga. 

"As I have expressed before, there is now a clear-cut case for external auditors to step in urgently and finally hold this disastrous administration to account. 

"I only hope for the sake of residents across our area that the other MPs in our district feel the same."

Judith Cummins, Bradford South Labour MP, said: "While there is at last some clarity about what has been going on with Bradford Live, the news that the venue is without an operator is a disappointing setback.

"Bradford deserves this world-class venue, and a suitable operator must be found as soon as possible.

"Today, I have again contacted Bradford Council expressing my disappointment and seeking further clarity on the next steps for Bradford Live."

Naz Shah, Bradford West Labour MP, said she was "disappointed" to learn the NEC Group had pulled out of the scheme but did not comment further.

Imran Hussain, Bradford East Labour MP, said: "After so much uncertainty surrounding Bradford Live over many months, it's welcome that we now have some clarity, however disappointing the news may ultimately be for all of us.

"Since first pitching the case to ministers a number of years ago and securing £4m from the Government to get the Odeon's restoration going, I've always believed in its ability to be one of the best performance venues in the north, and I stand by that.

"The Odeon is a cultural and historical icon of Bradford that we can't lose, and after a transformation that brought it back to life for next year's UK City of Culture celebrations, I'll be working with the Council and others to secure a new operator who can realise its potential."

Anna Dixon, Shipley Labour MP, said: "I am disappointed to hear that the NEC Group has pulled out of Bradford Live. 

"However, I am thankful to have clarity on the situation now.   

"Once operational, the venue will be a fantastic asset for the whole district of Bradford, both economically and culturally. 

"I am keen to see Bradford Live open, and I hope to hear news of a new operator stepping in in the near future."

The T&A has asked Bradford Council if it wanted the opportunity to respond to comments and concerns raised.