Earlier this year, plans were revealed to block off the 10 arches in the pedestrian route between Cheapside and Forster Square railway station with three-metre-high decorated panels, along with new lighting installed inside. The work is being funded by Network Rail and carried out by Bradford Council, with the aim of creating a much-improved public realm around the station.
This week, the Council began the first stages of the planned work by erecting fences at the arches. This move has sparked mixed reactions from the community, as the arches were previously used by homeless people and rough sleepers as shelter. Si Cunningham, chair of Bradford Civic Society, expressed relief at the decision to fence off the arches, stating that they presented an appalling first impression of the city center and were not safe or hygienic for those living there.
Members of Homeless Not Hopeless, a group that offers support to those in need, have expressed disappointment at the fencing off of the arches, as they are concerned about the whereabouts of the people who used them as shelter. Steven Richardson from the group emphasized the importance of finding and supporting these individuals in need.
Last month, the Telegraph & Argus spoke to some of the people who used the arches for shelter. They described a sense of community and safety within the arches, highlighting the difficulties of living on the streets. Despite the challenges they faced, the arches provided a place of refuge for these individuals.
In response to concerns about the impact on homeless individuals, a Bradford Council spokesperson stated that the Homeless Outreach Partnership (HOP) has been working closely with those who sleep rough in the arches to help them access support services. The Council emphasized that living in the railway arches is not a safe solution for vulnerable individuals and that supporting them is a key priority.
Mr. Cunningham also called for improvements to the wider area of Forster Square railway station to attract more passengers from the Airedale and Wharfedale lines. He urged rail bosses to repair the lift at the station, which has been closed due to water damage. Network Rail assured passengers that step-free access to platforms is still available via an alternative route.
In conclusion, the decision to fence off the arches at Forster Square railway station has sparked debate within the community. While some see it as a positive step towards improving the public realm, others are concerned about the impact on homeless individuals who used the arches for shelter. It is essential for authorities to continue working with support groups to ensure that those in need receive the assistance they require.