Development of a derelict site in Bradford centre is set to kickstart a key area of future regeneration in the city.
Plans have been approved to convert the shell of the old Kingfisher House, which is part of Jinnah Court on Filey Street, into a state-of-the-art orthopaedic care centre.
The site, just off Wakefield Road, falls within the Bradford ‘Southern Gateway’ – an area earmarked for major transformative regeneration.
The ‘Southern Gateway’ regeneration plan includes a proposed new £2 billion rail station that would connect Bradford to Leeds in just 12 minutes and Manchester in under half an hour. It would create a thriving hub with new homes, offices, retail, and leisure spaces.
Standard Health Group, the organisation behind the approved health centre plans, has said the work will be a significant step in addressing the demand for enhanced medical facilities in Bradford.
Bradford Council’s Portfolio Holder for Regeneration, Transport and Planning Alex Ross-Shaw said: “It is a real boost for the area to have an initial investment at this level and we anticipate further such investment will follow in what will be a key area of regeneration for Bradford. This new facility will create a centre of excellence bringing with it new specialist skills, and employment opportunities.”
Mark Cowgill, president of Bradford Chamber of Commerce, said: “This investment into Bradford is most welcome and a testimony to the faith entrepreneurs have in the city.
“The fact that Standard Health Group has selected a site within the proposed ‘Southern Gateway’ zone is a sign of the incredible potential this landmark regeneration project has to deliver for the region.
“This will provide yet another boost to a city economy which is heading very much in the right direction.”
Dr Gorav Datta of Standard Health added: “Standard Health is delighted to obtain planning permission to convert Kingfisher House into a state-of-the-art orthopaedic ambulatory surgical centre.
“There will be a considerable investment to provide digital operating theatres allowing the latest innovations in orthopaedic surgery including robotics, an imaging suite, and in-patient facilities to allow seamless patient pathways from admission to rehabilitation.
“The facility will treat NHS patients and also contribute to the training of surgeons and nursing staff alike. We aim to provide the highest quality in patient care, with the best outcomes and patient satisfaction.”
Owner of the property, Saleem Akhtar (SA Properties) said: “As SA Properties and Jinnah Group, we have been making a number of commitments to Bradford that has seen us invest millions into the city over recent years.
“Going forward, we have more plans to invest in the Southern Gateway and local area and are excited about how the city finally moves forward on the back of the some of the initiatives being promoted by the Council. We hope Standard Health can become the early win for the Southern Gateway, which brings more investment in the area.”
