February 23 2010

A notorious wasteland in the heart of Bradford, nominated for a Carbuncle for “Worst planning decision”, is to be partially opened to the public as a community garden.

Westfield had planned to construct a £320m retail scheme on the site but fell victim to the recession, it’s not known if or when work will resume.

Under the plans a series of Westfield signs encircling the site, daubed “Wastefield” by wry graffiti artists, will be moved back to an excavated basement. This would free up half the site for alternative uses.

Currently the council are investigating the creation of grassed areas, seating, footpaths, allotmens and even a wild flower meadow and outdoor theatre on the mothballed site.

Local arts development organisation Fabric is in discussion with officials over the installation of sculptures and artwork around the site.

Westfield remain in discussion with the council but have stipulated that any work must be short term, cost effective and not prejudice the realisation of their own proposals.

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