A PROMINENT Bradford district town centre building is to be brought back into use.

The long-vacant former Keighley County Court premises have been bought by a construction company.

Magnus Construction Group – and Magnus Facilities Management – plan to restore the North Street building for use as their own head office.

Bradford company ‘thrilled’ to complete purchase
Magnus said it had been negotiating on purchasing the building for several months, and was “thrilled” to have completed the deal.

“This is a major milestone for both our businesses and a proud moment for our entire team,” says a group spokesperson.

“The building represents not just a new home, but a solid foundation for the continued growth and success of the group.

“We’re thrilled to have purchased our very own office premises.

“Now the real work will begin – restoring this beautiful, historic property back to its former glory and creating a space that reflects our values – quality, craftsmanship and pride in everything we do.”
The building opened in 1831 as the Court of Requests, and also hosted criminal cases in ‘petty sessions’.

It became Keighley County Court in 1847. The county court closed in 2012, and although various proposals have been put forward for the site over the years, it remains disused.

Magnus, which is currently based at Thornton in Bradford, has around 20 employees but will be looking to expand.

The timescale for moving into its new premises is at present uncertain.

“I would like to hope we’d be in there within around six months but at the moment there are a number of unknowns,” the spokesperson adds.

“A survey is required, and then a meeting with architects.

“Quite a bit of work will be involved in the restoration, but it will be carried out sympathetically and we’ll be seeking to retain as many of the building’s original features as possible.”