Plans for new Victorian quarter in hidden underground tunnels

Graham Hall, of developer Sunbridge Wells, has worked with architects to come up with a plan for around 12,000 square foot of space beneath the Sunbridge Road area, near to City Park.

Mr Hall says the funding for the scheme, around £1m, is in place and a planning application will be submitted within a fortnight.

There would be space for “two or three fancy wine bars” as well as Victorian-style shop units and, subject to planning permission, it could be open by the end of this year.

“We have only just got the final plan as it has taken the architect six weeks to draw. There are three different levels, with approximately 12,000 square feet. It’s an unusual development - 90 per cent of Bradford people don’t know it (the tunnels) exist.”

There are three entrances/exits, including one behind a garage-style door next to steps up to Sunbridge Road. The tunnels have had various uses over many decades, including as nightclubs/bars.

Mr Hall first stumbled across the passages in 2008 and has been working to establish the various owners of sections of the tunnels.

“We are looking to (create space) for up to 70 ventures. The potential is massive.”

One aspect of the proposals will be the creation of units for young entrepreneurs. Rents would be set at less than £15 a day.

A website to promote the development says: “We are creating Bradford’s first underground market right in the heart of Bradford’s historic trading quarter. With easy access from City Park and Sunbridge Road, Sunbridge Wells will become a shopping and leisure area right in the centre of Bradford, linking the area from the new City Park to the Arndale Mall.

“We will become Bradford’s own Victorian quarter incorporating Victorian and contemporary shop units together with trading street barrows, restaurants and bars all in a setting in keeping with the history and ambiance of Bradford.”

“We wish to promote young entrepreneurs in the Bradford area aged 18 to 30, with easy in and out flexible trading terms.”

Council leader David Green said yesterday: “I visited the tunnel today and it was fascinating to see this hidden area of Bradford. The developers will be submitting plans shortly and I hope that we will be able to support their final proposals and that they secure the necessary finance to carry out the work.”

Val Summerscales, of Bradford Chamber of Trade, said: “We would not want to discourage entrepreneurial spirit and we would welcome investment. We need to look at all ways of regenerating Bradford.”

John Atkinson, of Twitter account Angry of Bradford, said: “(I) was immediately taken by it, as most have been. Love Bradford showing it’s not the identikit city.”

Michael Mason, tweeting as Pity Poor Bradford, said: “If they do it right and it’s more a ‘Victoria Quarter’ development than a Dewsbury market then it should be good.”