Bradford Culture Company outlines post-2025 plans

Continuing cultural initiatives following UK City of Culture year

Bradford Culture Company has announced its plans for 2026, aiming to build on the momentum generated by Bradford’s designation as UK City of Culture in 2025. The organisation, which was responsible for delivering the 2025 programme, will continue to support local artists and cultural organisations while maintaining community engagement.

Key achievements of Bradford 2025

• More than 3 million visitors attended events across Bradford city, towns, villages, and greenspaces during 2025.
• Events attracted audiences from all 30 wards of the district, as well as from across the UK and internationally.
• The programme created tens of thousands of opportunities for local people and influenced national perceptions of Bradford.

Plans for 2026 and beyond

Bradford Culture Company will continue operating as a smaller, more focused organisation. Its priorities include:

• Reopening the Loading Bay venue in May 2026. This multi-storey venue was a notable success in 2025, hosting exhibitions, theatre, international dance, live music, supper clubs, cabaret, and comedy nights. It welcomed over 40,000 visitors during the City of Culture year.
• Loading Bay is located in a former warehouse in the city centre and features two performance areas and a gallery across three floors.
• Plans to bring back The Beacon, a temporary community-focused venue, in summer 2026, subject to planning permission. The Beacon’s programme is expected to include family activities, arts and crafts, live music, poetry, and dance, with community sessions planned once permissions are secured.
• Reinstating the volunteer programme, supported by funding from Allwyn, to provide opportunities for residents to assist with events and act as ambassadors for Bradford.
• Embedding the Bradford Made history and heritage learning resources into schools and education settings.
• Working with partners in the cultural sector to strengthen pathways for young people into creative industries.
• Ongoing fundraising efforts to expand the programme and increase opportunities for local artists and residents.

Statements from leadership and officials

Dan Bates, Executive Director, and Shanaz Gulzar, Creative Director of Bradford Culture Company, reflected on the impact of the City of Culture year, highlighting the strengthening of the cultural sector, increased investment, tourism, and community pride. They emphasised that future success will continue to be driven by collaboration with artists, organisations, and communities across the district.

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy commented on the success of 2025, noting the high public engagement and the continuation of new venues to sustain the cultural spirit in Bradford.

Further details on upcoming activities are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.

Source: Bradford Culture Company press release, February 2026