BY KLTV Newsdesk –
Kirklees Council have appointed design consultants Greig and Stephenson to work on the next phase Huddersfield Open Market project.
The project, which is part of the larger 10-year Huddersfield Blueprint, will see the refurbishment and improvement of the existing open market on Northumberland Street move forward.
The council says they are seeking to improve the market offer in Huddersfield as part of wider improvements to Huddersfield Town Centre.
This involves the plan to combine the existing Queensgate Market and open market into a single, improved market, including the restoration of the Grade II Listed Building at the current open market site.
Over the summer, Greig and Stephenson will be developing a design for Huddersfield New Market, drawing on the findings of recent market research that was conducted by Public Perspectives back in May.
The plans are to open up the market in order to improve the longevity of the building and allow it to function in a way that is both more efficient and accessible to all.
‘Energy and Vitality’
Speaking on the appointment: Cllr Peter McBride, the Cabinet member for regeneration, said: “I am delighted that we have now appointed a design team to move our plans for Huddersfield New Market forward.
“We want to create a market culture with energy and vitality that will complement the more traditional high street shops.”
Cllr McBride added that the goal is to make the market more of a social space, with various areas and activities beyond the personal shopping experience.
He said: “This appointment is another important step towards achieving the vibrant, thriving town centre as set out in our ambitious Huddersfield Blueprint plans. ”
Heritage
The restoration of several Grade II listed buildings across Huddersfield also form part of the plans.
Charles Smith, Head of Region North East and Yorkshire for Historic England added: “The open market on Northumberland Street is a striking and handsome work of Victorian architecture.
“We’re delighted that the council is investing in its future.
“Heritage has a key role to play in shaping a positive future for Huddersfield Town Centre and these works will complement our current partnership working in the St George’s Square High Street Heritage Action Zone.”
Market Redevelopment
Greig and Stephenson are Architecture firm based in London, and specialise in market redevelopment, both nationally and internationally.
Kirklees Council says the practice is passionate about the wider social and economic regenerative qualities of markets.
In addition, the council appointed Public Perspectives to carry out market research that was completed in May.
The council says the research gave them insight into the shopping behaviours and views of communities.
The information, from the 1,000 responses to telephone surveys and online focus groups, will help shape the development of proposals to improve the Huddersfield market experience.