Business bosses excited about Bradford City of Culture

The year-long celebration officially begins Friday night with an event billed as “spectacular open-air theater” at City Park and Centenary Square.

Organizers say the area hosts around 1,000 events throughout the year and is expected to attract 3.3 million visitors over the next 12 months, generating nearly £140 million in spending for the local economy. Masu.

Harry Hall, who runs Sunbridge Wells, an underground complex in Bradford city centre, said this was going to be a “massive” year for the area.

Harry Hall (Image: Newsquest)He told the Telegraph and Argus: “I hope that City of Culture can highlight the good things about Bradford to the whole country.

“It will boost tourism and give the hospitality industry a much-needed boost.

“We also hope it will bring more investment into the city.”

He added: “There are so many people working behind the scenes to make Bradford proud.

“We hope the local and wider community will come together and enjoy the great events that are being held across the city.

“Personally, I feel this is a huge opportunity for Bradford to sit at the top table again alongside Leeds and Manchester.”

Imran Khan, who runs IK Collection in Westgate, said: 'The City of Culture is important to Bradford.

imran khan “This will help raise the profile of Bradford and showcase this unique and special place, full of culture, history and talent.

“There are a lot of events planned so I’m looking forward to them.

“There will be something for everyone and every interest, so I encourage everyone to attend.”

Waqar Mughal, who helps run Lambrun's Sweet Center Restaurant, said: “It's Bradford's time to shine and we're all really excited.”

Waqar Mughal and Israr Mughal at Sweet Center Restaurant in Bradford (Image: Newsquest/Mike Simmonds)

“This will be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”

Mark Cassi, Head of Policy and Representation at West and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, added: “Bradford is now officially a British City of Culture and it is a deserving title.”

Mark Cassi (Image: Post) “This year will give us 12 months to put Bradford on the international stage and maximize our civic pride.

“But it also helps enrich us as a city in a literal sense.

“When Hull became UK City of Culture in 2017, more than five million people flocked to the city, bringing with it £220m of investment and 800 new jobs.

“Given Bradford’s fantastic business community, we can expect a similar level of investment and engagement.”