Bradford City Park
Bringing culture and vibrant social life to the heart of Bradford City Centre
Bradford, UK

Gillespies has transformed the heart of Bradford into a bold and distinctive public space featuring a striking six-acre Mirror Pool, the largest urban water feature in the United Kingdom.
Bradford City Council initiated the regeneration of Centenary Square to reverse decades of decline, attract investment and re-establish the city centre as a vibrant civic and cultural hub. Gillespies was appointed to lead the reimagination of the square into a dynamic and inclusive public space that would bring together Bradford’s rich and diverse population in one shared space.
At the heart of the design is a 3,600-square-metre Mirror Pool animated by more than 100 fountains, including the dramatic 30-metre-high ‘Bradford Blast.’ By day, the shallow pool reflects the surrounding heritage buildings. At set times, the water recedes to reveal a pedestrian causeway, or drains completely to create space for events.


"We are excited by the way that Gillespies has very practically addressed the constraints on the [Bradford Mirror Pool City Park] site whilst at the same time coming forward with design proposals which we, and our regeneration partners Bradford City Council, feel will deliver a truly landmark development."
Maud Marshall, Chief Executive, Bradford Centre for Regeneration

As night falls, the space shifts again, coming alive with choreographed fountains, lighting, and mist displays. The park shifts with the mood of the city, from calm and reflective to bold and celebratory, creating a unique sense of place.
Framed by granite terraces, trees, and generous lawn areas, the park encourages dwell time, play, and social interaction. The flexible layout supports both programmed events and spontaneous use, making it a vital part of daily life in the city.
Since its opening, Bradford City Park has become a catalyst for urban renewal, reactivating the city centre, supporting local businesses, and welcoming thousands of visitors to major events. It has helped reshape perceptions of the city, instilling civic pride and delivering a renewed sense of identity. The park played a key role in Bradford’s successful UK City of Culture 2025 bid and will serve as a central venue throughout the programme of celebrations.


Award
Year
Landscape Institute Awards: Highly Commended
2014
RICS Pro-Yorkshire Regeneration Award: Highly Commended Bradford’s City Park
2013
Urban Design Group: Best Project for the Public Sector
2013
RTPI Yorkshire’s Planning Excellence Award
2013
LUX Urban Lighting Award
2012
Making a Difference in Yorkshire and Humber Awards
2012
Association of Town and City Management (ATCM) Awards: Animating Public Space — Shortlisted
2012
British Construction Industry (BCI) Awards: Regeneration Award
2012
Academy of Urbanism - The Great Place Award
2013


Project details
Title
Bradford City Park
Client
Bradford City Council
Status
Complete
Project team
Gillespies (lead designer), Arup, Sturgeon North Architects, Fountain Workshop
Gillespies team
Tom Walker, Adam Greatrix
Photography
Giles Rocholl/Gillespies