Bradford Council is looking to consolidate its estate in the city centre which will save £1.1million per year.
The move of Bradford’s City Library is also part of the City Centre Accommodation Programme.
The Council regularly reviews the use of its buildings to ensure that facilities operate efficiently and effectively in light of changing patterns of use.
The programme will ensure staff can be accommodated more effectively, whilst delivering significant budget savings.
The Council is a major employer in the district and employs hundreds of staff based in the city centre across a range of buildings. The Council proposes to close and eventually dispose of Margaret McMillan Tower. The building sits on the boundary of the Council’s Transforming Cities work near the former Jacob’s Well roundabout.
With new public realm and green spaces on its doorstep and sitting next to the National Science & Media Museum, which is also undergoing a significant refurbishment, Margaret McMillan Tower will represent one of the most exciting investment opportunities in the city. Staff currently working at Margaret McMillan Tower will relocate to City Hall and Britannia House.
Cllr Alex Ross-Shaw, Bradford Council’s Executive Member for Regeneration, Planning and Transport, said: “Our staff are our greatest asset, and we want to make sure they have the right spaces and facilities to work to the best of their abilities for the residents of this district.
“We have always carefully monitored the use of our buildings to ensure they remain cost-effective. It makes sense to look at how these spaces fit our future needs and how we can best utilise our assets and save money where possible. Although there will be initial costs associated with the move it will save £1.1m year on year and make our workspaces fit for future needs.
“The disposal of Margaret McMillan Tower also represents an exciting opportunity for the next phase of our regeneration programme. It sits in a prime spot in the city centre and could potentially fulfil a number of uses in the future.
“There’s a bit of work to do yet before we take it to market but we’re looking forward to exploring opportunities for it in the future. The move of Bradford’s City Library will also represent a significant opportunity and more details will follow shortly.”
