An award-winning shopping centre in Bradford, built in 1976, is set to close permanently on June 18 and will be completely demolished, leaving its stores deserted. The Kirkgate Shopping Centre, which won a European Award from the International Council of Shopping Centres just three years after opening, is making way for Bradford's City Village project.
Stores closing and demolition timeline
Many stores inside the centre have already closed, with signs on doors and windows confirming imminent closure. The Get Free Books shop has a handwritten notice stating its last trading day is June 13, citing planned demolition works. New Look and Pound Bakery have already ceased operations, and Boyes store displays a 'store closing down' sign, though it is already cleared out.
The shopping centre will close later this year, with demolition expected to begin towards the end of 2026. The old markets will be redeveloped into new houses and apartments as part of the City Village neighbourhood, which aims to create up to 1,000 new homes, green spaces, and opportunities for retail, leisure, and business.
Bradford Council's statement on retail shifts
A Bradford Council spokesperson acknowledged shoppers' affection for Kirkgate but emphasised the need for change. 'We know there will be some affection for the Kirkgate Centre, it has been part of our city centre for decades. However, towns and city centres have been changing across the country for many years now. City centres now need much more than retail. To be successful, they need a mix of leisure, homes, business spaces, as well as hubs for culture and education.'
The spokesperson highlighted new developments like Bradford Live and Darley Street Market as examples of this transformation. The Express has contacted Kirkgate Shopping Centre for comment.
