By KLTV Newsdesk –
Plans for improvements to Dewsbury Market have been submitted for planning permission by Kirklees Council.
A £15 million investment by the council aims to retain and repair the original buildings historic features while introducing new stalls and facilities across the market.
The council says this will improve the space as a destination for both locals and visitors.
A new food court will also be created within the Edwardian Market Hall, as well as a large covered space in the adjacent building which will be capable of supporting events and entertainment.
Broadening Appeal
The council says this will broaden the market’s appeal by creating a warm, family-friendly atmosphere and adding at least ten different food and beverage operators – but also by creating a new area that can remain open on an evening when the rest of the market is closed, supporting the town’s evening economy.
This area will have seating for more than 200 people and standing room for more than 700 at any one time.
As well as improving the structure and broadening the offering, a total of 172 new stalls will be added to replace existing ones, including bespoke stalls set up for more specialist food and drink retailers.
Market days are often Dewsbury’s busiest in terms of footfall, and the council wants the marketplace to remain a key feature at the heart of the town centre.
Revitalising the market is part of the much wider Dewsbury Blueprint project, which focuses on improving the town centre, bringing in more footfall and boosting the local economy.
Read More: Kirklees Council Making Progress in ‘Regeneration’ of Dewsbury
Construction work is planned to start in spring 2022, aiming for completion in summer 2023.
During this time a large temporary street market will continue trading in its place, across a variety of locations including Market Place, part of Foundry Street, the footpaths along Longcauseway, and in front of the Town Hall.
This will allow shoppers to continue buying local produce and supporting local traders.
‘Big Plans’
Speaking on the submission, Councillor Eric Firth, Cabinet Member for Town Centres, said: “We have big plans for Dewsbury between now and 2030, to create and rejuvenate amazing spaces which are loved by locals and attract new visitors too.
“Historically, a marketplace is so often the heart of a town. So as we work to breathe new life into Dewsbury town centre, Dewsbury Market – which remains one of the town’s most distinct and well-loved features – is a key part of the puzzle.
“We want to put Dewsbury on the map as one of Yorkshire’s destination spots for local produce, crafts and cuisine.
“This beautiful and bustling market, so close to key transport links, will help do just that.”