By KLTV Newsdesk –

Stallholders have signed a letter raising concerns over Kirklees Council’s proposed changes to Huddersfield Open Market.

More than 140 traders at Huddersfield Open Market have signed a letter expressing opposition to Kirklees Council’s proposed redevelopment of the market.

The signatures, collected on Thursday, 9th and Saturday, 11th October, represent over 90% of the traders present on those days and a significant majority of all stallholders across the week.

In the letter, the traders state that their collective experience of markets across northern England leads them to believe the current plans carry “a substantial risk of failure that will cause the building to fall into decline with additional adverse effects on the surrounding conservation area.”

Traders Dispute Council’s Assessment of Support

The traders’ letter contrasts with recent comments made by Councillor Graham Turner, Cabinet Member for Finance and Regeneration, who said the majority of traders were supportive of the proposals.

Evangelos Dimopoulos, who has operated the Snack Shack café in the market for 19 years, said: “These alterations affect the jobs of everyone here, so obviously we talk about them, and we all know that there is no support among traders.

“We were very surprised to read Councillor Turner’s comments, and everyone wanted to sign the letter to make sure our opposition is loud and clear.”

Questions Raised About Consultation Process

Andrew Wilson, director of West Yorkshire think tank Same Skies and a regular shopper at the market, assisted in drafting the letter.

He said the difference between traders’ feedback and the council’s public statements raises questions about how the consultation process was carried out.

“This project has a budget of £16 million. To find out what the traders think, why couldn’t someone just walk up and down the rows and talk to each trader individually? It would take a couple of days at most,” said Mr Wilson.

He added that his main concern is the source of the information behind Councillor Turner’s comments.

“I’ll be writing to David Shepherd, Director of Place at Kirklees Council, to ask how the gap between what the traders are saying and what the council is saying might have come about.”

Council’s Position

Kirklees Council has stated that the proposed redevelopment of Huddersfield Open Market is part of its wider plans to revitalise the town centre.

The council has said it is working to ensure the market remains a key feature of Huddersfield’s economy and community life, while improving the facilities for traders and visitors alike.

Further consultation and engagement with traders are expected as the plans progress.