This week, Bradford played host to an inspiring two-day Intercultural Cities Study Visit, welcoming civic leaders, policymakers, and culture experts from across Europe and beyond.
The dynamic programme, organised with the Council of Europe’s Intercultural Cities Programme, showcased Bradford’s innovative approaches to integration, inclusion, and urban regeneration. Local representatives from France, Italy, Mexico, Norway, Poland, Portugal and elsewhere in the UK gathered in Bradford, together with representatives from the UK Government and the Belong Network, to learn and be inspired by the actions of the city in building community strength and share recent initiatives and results.
Day One: Exploring Bradford’s Story of Diversity and Cohesion
The visit began at the historic City Hall, where delegates were greeted by local leaders and representatives of the Intercultural Cities Programme. Highlights included an address on the UK National Cohesion Policy from the UK Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, as well as a compelling look at Bradford’s rich history of migration and faith.
Participants enjoyed a guided walk through the city centre and Little Germany, immersing in Bradford’s living story of immigration and community resilience, and in the afternoon learned more about the Bradford District Cohesion Framework, highlighting innovative initiatives such as the school linking network, the Hate Crime Alliance, and targeted support for Roma communities. The day concluded with a Q&A and a civic reception at the Bradford Arts Centre, complete with cultural performances and a warm welcome from The Right Worshipful The Lord Mayor of Bradford Cllr Chris Herd.
Day Two: Shaping Places and Building Community
Day two opened with interactive discussions on the built environment and place-making. Delegates explored how thoughtful city design, inclusive spaces like the Commonwealth War Memorial, and culture-forward projects empower Bradford’s diverse communities. The importance of partnerships – both local and national – were also highlighted with presentations from the Belong Network and Bradford council about the new Bradford Cohesion Framework, as well as other important partnerships with the National Lottery Heritage Fund and community gardens projects. Culture as a driver of urban regeneration and renewal was also underlined.
Visits and workshops at the Bradford Arts Centre and site visits to the historic Manningham Mills and the picturesque Lister Park allowed participants to experience first-hand how Bradford integrates culture, heritage, and active citizenship into its urban fabric.
Forging New Connections
As the visit concluded, international partners offered feedback and forged plans for continued collaboration on intercultural integration. The Bradford study visit highlighted the city's ongoing efforts to build welcoming and vibrant communities, offering inspiration for other cities in Europe and beyond.
