Kala Sangam announces name change

Bradford-based intercultural arts hub Kala Sangam is renaming to Bradford Arts Centre.

The change of name will come into effect in 2025, when the company completes a major capital redevelopment of its city centre venue as part of Bradford’s celebrations as UK City of Culture.

The organisation says the change follows an extensive public consultation over recent months.

A statement on Bradford Arts Centre's website says participants thought the new name would be more easily understandable, inclusive and representative of its work.

"It was suggested by groups from many different heritages and faiths, including South Asian communities, as a name they felt would include them and not exclude others," the statement continues.

"Having listened to these conversations, we believe that becoming Bradford Arts Centre will help us reduce barriers to access. The change will enable more of Bradford’s diverse population – including our many South Asian communities – to have ownership over our publicly funded space."

Kala Sangam Chair of Trustees Jas Athwal said: "I want to thank the hundreds of people who took the time to complete a questionnaire or join a focus group to help us choose our new name,"

"In Bradford Arts Centre, I’m delighted we have found a name that groups from many different heritages and faiths, including our diverse South Asian communities, felt would include them and not exclude others."