The six-year history of Bradford Centre Regeneration was a story that started with an ambitious masterplan and ended with a world-class park on the verge of delivery.

To some observers, it was a concept that brought about closer working between the public and private sector, and attracted investment to Bradford from as far afield as the Middle East and Germany But to detractors, it was a tale of controversy over a former cinema’s proposed demolition, a time that saw expensive delegations heading for conferences in the South of France and a period of slow progress in terms of physical regeneration.

While the Council now has the reins of regeneration, the work done by BCR has laid the groundwork, say others.

Andrew Mason, chairman of Bradford Property Forum and managing director of Shipley-based Newmason Properties, said of BCR: “They have done fantastically well. The timing could have been slightly better for them, but they have worked tirelessly to raise the profile of Bradford, not least through the MIPIM events in Cannes.

“Through them, we have levered more money into Bradford than we have for the last 20 years. BCR had a catalytic effect from the early days and they have kicked something off for the Council continue.”

Gary Peacock, general manager of the Midland Hotel in Forster Square said: “BCR has worked tirelessly selling the long-term regeneration and development of Bradford.

“The collective expertise and experience of the BCR board and key personnel within BCR formulated a strategic plan to bring developers and investment into the city.

“Have they done it? Some say no. What have they achieved? Some say nothing. I say look back in ten years’ time and ask the same question, because without the foundations being laid by BCR over the last six years, Bradford would not have any chance of a successful future.”

It is a future that will be shaped by the Council now, and UK property experts have given their views on what Bradford Council should do to attract inward investment to the district.

The smooth operation of the planning system and top-class transport links have emerged as two key factors in luring developers to Bradford.

The Edinburgh-based Miller Group, described as the UK’s largest privately-owned housebuilding, property development and construction business, has urged the Council’s department for regeneration to be “realistic” in its goals.

Jonathan Wallis, director of Miller Developments, part of the Miller Group, gave an insight into how Bradford is viewed by developers from outside the area.

He said: “Bradford Council has taken the correct steps towards revitalising the area and attracting inward investment by establishing a regeneration task force department.

“This illustrates great commitment to the area and the job in hand.

“Key areas for the department to consider, from our experience, are: to be realistic in its goals and aspirations and to review planning constraints; assist with the facilitation of planning consents and, where possible, avoid expensive Section 106 obligations.

“A key area where success will come from is by co-investing in developments with private developers by injecting land and creating lasting working partnerships which can go on to bear fruits for many years.”

The British Property Federation, the national body that represents those involved in property ownership and investment, said the Council needed to “win the confidence” of potential new partners.

Liz Pearce, chief executive of the Property Forum, said: “Developers have to know exactly what they’re investing in, so councils needed to present a clear vision of their area’s future with good, in-depth masterplans which will build confidence on the part of the private sector.

“It is also vital that developers have confidence in the Council’s ability to process planning proposals quickly and engage directly with them.

“Good transport facilities and solid infrastructure links are essential and there is little surprise that the cities benefiting most from new investment are the ones built around key transport hubs, such as airports and major railway terminals.

“Investors will be attracted to areas that people want to live in as well as and work in, so the scope for housing, amenities and green spaces is an essential consideration.

‘’Ultimately, it comes down to winning the confidence of potential new partners. It’s not simply about the location on offer, but a balanced decision that is built on the relationships that each local authority is able to build with the private sector in understanding and addressing each other’s needs.”