Art Deco-style windows spark flats plan concerns

A proposal has been submitted to turn the upper floors of the building into flats

Part of a former city centre music venue which is known for its striking Art Deco-style windows could be converted into flats.

Applicants said they hoped to turn the upper floors of 15 North Parade in Bradford, which sit above the former Rewired bar, into five flats.

However, concerns have been raised by Bradford Council's housing standards team over the landmark stained glass and decorative glazing, which officers feared could obstruct natural light and ventilation.

But developers said in their planning application that the scheme was "wholly appropriate" and was in what was described as a "sustainable location".

According to the Local Democracy Service, the building lies within a Conservation Area, with the ground floor bar area currently vacant.

The Art Deco-style windows are on the upper floors of the building in Bradford city centre

In a report to be considered by councillors, environmental health officers voiced fears over the proximity of the proposed flats to the various late night venues on North Parade.

Meanwhile, the size and location of the building's windows had also prompted concerns, with council officers stating the view could be obscured.

In the report, they said: "The opening parts to these windows are very small and located at high level.

"It is difficult to assess if the existing windows would allow sufficient natural light and ventilation to the proposed dwellings."

A decision on the application is expected to be made in the new year.

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