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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

In warmer months, the pool becomes a magnet for families and visitors, inviting people to paddle, play and cool off in the water, transforming the square into a vibrant, shared civic playground.

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