The plans, announced at the UK Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF), could see more than 30,000 new homes delivered across West Yorkshire.
Bradford Council highlighted its City Village programme, which will deliver 1,000 new homes, green spaces, shops, and restaurants in the city centre.
The Southern Gateway scheme, bolstered by investments in rail and a mass transit system, will unlock a further 5,000 new homes.
The city’s new station will be part of the £45 billion Northern Powerhouse Rail scheme, promising reduced journey times, improved reliability, and enhanced connectivity to Leeds, Manchester, and beyond.
Coupled with plans for a mass transit system by the late 2030s, Bradford’s improved connectivity is expected to drive economic growth and create future jobs.
The £17 million redevelopment of Bradford Forster Square station will provide a modern gateway with improved facilities, enabling passengers to switch between bus, rail, and future mass transit services.
David Shepherd, Bradford Council’s Strategic Director for Place, spoke about the city’s momentum: “Without a doubt we are viewed as a very progressive city, one of the most progressive in the UK.”
The UKREiiF conference, held in Leeds, gathered over 16,000 attendees, including investors and business leaders. The event highlighted West Yorkshire’s economic performance, which is surpassing the national average.
The region’s regeneration opportunities were presented as significant on both national and international scales, while the conference also underscored the region’s track record of accelerating delivery through strong partnership working.
Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, spoke about the region’s ambitions: “Working in partnership, we’re creating new opportunities for growth, regeneration, and innovation, helping us to continue boosting our economy and attracting investment.”
Other regions in West Yorkshire also showcased their plans.
Calderdale Council presented its vision for Halifax town centre, focusing on future investment and urban renewal.
Kirklees Council promoted its Our Cultural Heart project, which aims to transform Huddersfield town centre.
Leeds announced plans for a new Mayoral Development Zone, which includes proposals to deliver 20,000 new homes at the South Bank.
Wakefield Council showcased plans for the transformation of Cathedral Quarter in the city centre, which could see the delivery of over 1,000 new homes.
These plans are part of a broader strategy to boost West Yorkshire’s economy and attract investment, potentially adding £26 billion to the UK economy.