Bradford's historic Wool Exchange is only two thirds full three years after developers moved in to carry out their ambitious restoration project.

The historic building, once the hub of the wool trade, is now buzzing with activity again.

But Preston-based developers Maple Grove want office tenants for the first floor to complete one of the biggest city centre success stories.

Now the developers say they will start an aggressive marketing campaign to fill the famous Grade One listed building.

Its main tenants, book giants Waterstones, occupy all the ground floor and Reeds solicitors are on the second floor.

But the developers are still looking for tenants for most of the first floor. A kiosk and two shop units are also empty.

Jonathan Murton, development surveyor for Maple Grove, admitted it was a disappointment.

But he said the decision to keep original features of the building meant the office floor could not be open-plan.

"We need someone who will cherish operating within a character building."

The £2.5 million restoration scheme followed the collapse of plans by other developers to make the imposing building a shopping centre.

Maple Grove decided to go ahead in spite of difficulties with the fabric of the building and restrictions because it was in the top category listing.

But the company said in its favour were its history and imposing Victorian Venetian Gothic architecture.

Chairman of the Council's regeneration committee Councillor Dave Green said the restoration of the Wool Exchange was a high point of the city centre regeneration.

He said: "I am sure the extra lettings will soon come in.

"This is proof the right decision was made although it came at a time when people were highly sceptical."

Charles Forgan, secretary of Bradford Congress, made up of the district's leading organisations, said: "The development shows what can be done. New retail investment will be the saving of the city centre."

l The foundation stone for the Wool Exchange was laid in 1864 by Lord Palmerston and the building became the focal point for the world's wool trade. The Exchange was completed in 1867 and the tender of £26,782 was overspent by £790.

Before Maple Grove took over the great hall was used for flea markets but revenue did not meet the ever growing costs of maintaining the building.

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