Bradford City Centre Pedestrianisation Wins Further National Recognition

Bradford’s city centre transformation has received another major accolade, with its pedestrianisation scheme earning a national award for infrastructure excellence.

The project, completed last year, has reshaped key streets including Hall Ings, Market Street and Bridge Street by removing vehicle traffic and introducing new green spaces, walkways and seating areas.

Its latest success came at the 2026 Pineapples Awards, where it won in the infrastructure category. The awards recognise projects that combine high-quality design with meaningful environmental and social benefits.

Judges praised the Bradford scheme for delivering more than just improved active travel routes, highlighting its wider social impact. They noted that the project has also encouraged further investment in the surrounding area—describing it as a hallmark of successful infrastructure.

The City Centre Walking and Cycling Improvement Scheme was selected ahead of competing entries from cities such as Leeds and London.

This is not the first time the initiative has been recognised. It has previously been awarded for its contributions to biodiversity and public health, and was also named “national infrastructure project of the year” by a leading construction membership body.

Bradford Council said the changes have significantly improved the quality of the city centre environment. A spokesperson highlighted that pedestrianisation has allowed public spaces to be reclaimed for people, creating a cleaner, greener and more attractive place to spend time.

Although the works initially disrupted visitor numbers—due to construction activity and the temporary closure of the bus station—footfall has since rebounded strongly. Visitor numbers rose by 25% in the first quarter of 2025 compared with the same period in 2024.

Bradford Business Improvement District (BID) also confirmed that footfall has continued to increase steadily since 2025, suggesting the long-term benefits of the scheme are now being realised.