Developers building a controversial £8 million leisure complex in the heart of Bradford today insisted tenants would be secured for all five units.

Asda St James, the company behind the scheme on the former Provincial House site in Centenary Square, revealed that two bar and restaurant operators, believed to include Wetherspoons, had already signed up.

But director Ian Barraclough also admitted that efforts to secure an arts-based project for the largest of the five units had so far been unsuccessful.

He revealed that a major nightclub operator was keen on the unit but said a final decision would be made in March, with the new development expected to be open for business by next summer.

Mr Barraclough said there had been around 50 inquiries from potential tenants and the developers were keen to secure a coffee bar and traditional restaurant for the remaining units. He said it was possible a book shop could also be included.

"Having secured these two tenants, we are now looking for an offering which will be available during the day," said Mr Barraclough, whose firm is also developing in Millennium Square, Leeds, and the Peace Gardens in Sheffield.

"Interest was slow at first, but since people have seen the structure start to take shape we have had a lot of inquiries. It has been very encouraging."

He said Asda St James was in the project "for the long-run" and keen to attract high-quality tenants.

"It will be a case of the caf society coming to Bradford," he said. "We can't wait to get the external walls completed so that people can see the sharpness of the architecture. We have delivered a contemporary building in a historic setting and we are really delighted."

Councillor Simon Cooke, Bradford Council's executive member for the economy, said the development by Ilkley-based Quarmby Construction would enhance the appeal of the city centre.

He was still keen to see some 'arts space' incorporated, but insisted: "The key has always been a question of getting life back into the city. I am pleased that we have got a project like this going off.

"Perhaps people will begin to believe at last that we are beginning to regenerate Bradford city centre."

Coun Cooke and Council leader Margaret Eaton were given a tour of the site following the completion of the roof phase at the two-storey 45,000 sq ft development.

It will include a large external paved area fronting Centenary Square and a giant electronic screen used to promote local events and attractions.

Coun Eaton said: "We are delighted to have attracted support from two major developers. It is great news for Bradford and will encourage other firms to do the same."

Simon Hudspith, of architects Panther Hudspith, said the design of the building was "unique" and a "dramatic modern intervention" on the setting in front of Grade One Listed City Hall.

"It is a building which will open up space in the rest of the city," he said.