New designs for £16.5m Huddersfield Market revamp revealed
Levelling Up cash will be used to breathe new life into the Grade II listed building
Brand new designs for Huddersfield market have been revealed and the council wants to know what you think.
The Northumberland Street market project was one of those successful in the Levelling Up scheme, under the previous government, with the project securing a £16.5m cash injection. With the change of government, a question mark hung over the future of the Levelling Up projects but all those in Kirklees will be getting their funding, the recent budget set out.
With work to progress the scheme ticking on in the background, Kirklees Council has now shared its latest plans for Huddersfield market, which it says will provide an improved traditional market, a better food and drink offering, events and support for local businesses and entrepreneurs.
The bulk of the investment will focus on the existing Grade II* Listed market building which dates back to 1887 and is showing its age, in need of “essential” repairs. The market’s original paint colours of red, pink and cream will be restored as part of these works, with this palette said to be typical of the town’s municipal buildings of the era.
As well as the historic structure that we recognise today, two new buildings and an improved public realm are proposed for the area next to Tesco’s car park that will be known as the ‘Market Yard’. This will act as a boundary for the market square and will host market traders well suited to outdoor trading.
The designs also include changes to the existing stalls including new demountable stalls which can be moved and re-arranged to suit the different requirements of individual market days.
The council are engaging with the public from Friday, November 22 to Monday, December 23 on the plans. Residents can come along to Huddersfield Market on Saturday, November 23 and Tuesday, November 26 to view the designs in person and speak to the project team.
Councillor Graham Turner, Cabinet Member for Finance & Regeneration, said: “Huddersfield Market is already a popular town centre location where people like to visit and support local businesses and through this investment we want to ensure it remains so for generations to come.
“These plans would drive more footfall by giving people even more reasons to visit, with room to enjoy seasonal events and socialise with friends and family.
“We have been engaging with residents and traders to create designs that work for everyone. After listening to what people have had to say, further concept designs are now available to comment on as part of a fresh consultation.”