Bradford News: Multi Million Pound Drive Thru Development Opens in Bradford Today, Fuelling Local Regeneration and Job Creation

Anyone who travels down Thornton Road in Bradford knows it’s a key route, connecting the suburbs with the city centre. It’s one of those roads that’s always buzzing. And now, there's a new reason for that buzz. A multi-million-pound drive thru development has just opened its doors on 13 February 2026, bringing a brand-new Starbucks to the area and, just as importantly, creating 28 new jobs for the local community. This isn't just about grabbing a quick coffee; it's a significant investment in the area, transforming a forgotten piece of land into something everyone can use.

From old gas works to grande lattes

The new development sits on a piece of land that has a bit of history. It was once a car park and, before that, the site of old gas works. These kinds of plots can often sit empty for years because they need a lot of work to be made safe and useful again. But property investor and developer, the Harkalm Group, saw potential in this highly visible spot. They took on the challenge of completely transforming the site into a modern and welcoming space. This is a perfect example of regeneration, turning old industrial land into new buildings for everyone.

It was a detailed process that started back at the end of 2022. Ben Sarner, Managing Director of the Harkalm Group, explains the journey: “We acquired the high visibility site situated in front of 1Energy’s low-carbon heat network for Bradford, at the end of 2022/start of 2023. After a detailed process of planning negotiation, we secured permission for an 1800 square foot development. The remediated site will share access with 1Energy and accommodates a drive thru Starbucks with a seating area for customers.” This kind of project shows a real commitment to improving urban spaces for local communities.

A long-term boost for the Bradford community

This project is much more than just a quick build. The Harkalm Group has made a serious long-term investment in the future of Bradford. It’s not just about building something and walking away; it’s about creating a lasting and valuable place for the community. Think of it as planting a tree rather than just putting a potted plant on the doorstep. The results will be seen for years to come, providing a great service and stable jobs.

The scale of this commitment is pretty clear. As Sarner states, “This is a long term commitment and investment and we have agreed a 25 year lease with Starbucks. Separately, we understand planning is currently being obtained for a further food and beverage offering also to be added in the near future.” A 25-year lease is a huge vote of confidence in the area. It means this drive thru will be a fixture in the community for a generation, and the news that another food and beverage outlet is on the way suggests this site is set to become a popular local hub. It's on its way to becoming a very high community asset for everyone in Bradford to enjoy.

More than just coffee and cake

While a new Starbucks is big news, there’s more going on at this development. The project has been designed with the future in mind. For starters, it includes eight electric vehicle charging stations, supplied by Eon. With more people switching to electric cars, having these facilities is a massive plus. It means you can top up your car's battery while you top up your caffeine levels. It’s a small touch that makes a big difference and supports the move towards cleaner transport.

The location is also next to something quite innovative: 1Energy’s low-carbon heat network. This is a project aiming to decarbonise heat in UK towns, a big step towards creating healthier cities and a better quality of life for residents. The Harkalm Group’s development works alongside this mission. The entire construction was completed by expert contractors, McFadyens and Forecourt Refresh, who brought the vision for the new buildings to life.

Sarner confirms the pride in this project: “We are proud to invest in Bradford, regenerating this key location for the benefit of the local community for many years to come. It’s also been insightful to coordinate with 1Energy as they progress on their mission to decarbonise heat in UK towns creating healthier cities and a better quality of life.” He adds, “Our trusted relationships with our tenants built over numerous other projects, means we have been able to move forward with this opportunity and to bring a high community asset to Bradford and support regeneration in the area.”

The team behind the transformation

The company making all this happen, The Harkalm Group, has a strong track record. Their hard work and vision have led to some impressive achievements, including being named Property Investor of the Year at the 2025 EPA Awards. This isn’t just a business for them; it’s about making a positive impact. The company’s powerful drive for success is balanced with a real sense of gratitude for its achievements and a genuine commitment to giving back.

This commitment is shown through their support for various community projects and local charities. The group dedicates 1% of its profits and 1% of its staff's time each year to supporting good causes. This approach shows that their investment in an area like Bradford goes far beyond the physical buildings. It’s about becoming part of the fabric of local communities and helping them to thrive. By focusing on projects that deliver real benefits, they are helping to build a better future, one development at a time.