PROPOSALS to convert a 138-year-old former college building into a development of over 200 apartments were revealed at a public consultation yesterday.

Bradford College’s Old Building on Great Horton Road is one of the city centre’s most striking buildings - but in recent years the College has moved from the buildings it had been based in since opening into the purpose built David Hockney Building, just next to the Old Building.

Yesterday the College and Citywide Investors, the consortium behind the planned building purchase and the redevelopment plans, presented possible plans for the building’s future.

Under the plans the building will be converted into 206 flats, created over over three phases.

There will also be an on site gym, media centre, cafe and landscaped courtyard area, as well as 24-hour on site security.

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A theatre in the building will be fully restored for use by the College and neighbouring University of Bradford.

The Grade II listed building was completed in 1882, and Historic England describes the building’s tower as a “prominent feature of the Bradford skyline.”

At the consultation event in the David Hockney Building last night, visitors were show images of the current state of the building.

Although some areas remain in good condition, other areas are showing signs of neglect.

Many of the building’s heritage features, such as its main stairway and stained glass windows, will be retained and incorporated into the plans.

Those who dropped into the consultation yesterday were told that if planning is approved, then Phase I of the scheme – made up of 67 units, would be completed by Autumn 2021.

Phase II – 110 units, would be completed a year later with Phase III, made up of 29 units, will be completed by Autumn 2023.

The results of yesterday’s consultation will be included in a future planning application for the site.

Sue Gott, Head of Estates and Facilities at Bradford College, said: “After consolidating college activity across other campuses, finding the right buyer for the Old Building is crucial.

“Not just for the college, but for our neighbours, the local community and all those who have studied in this amazing building since 1882.

“The college has been impressed with the plans and how sympathetically Citywide Investors plans to be in the development of the internal and external architecture.

“Bradford College will continue to support the buyers throughout the planning process with Bradford Council which could take up to six months to complete.”