CONSTRUCTION group Interserve has won the £12.3m contract to refurbish the Grade I-listed Kirkgate Market in Leeds.
The project, described as “one of the most exciting developments happening in Leeds”, will primarily modernise the building during the year-long works.
It will include a new event space and café area, replacement roofs in both halls, and the introduction of a covered daily market within the 1976 hall.
There are 200 businesses within the open market and 150 on the open market, employing 1,750 people and attracting 35,000 shoppers each week. The contractors will seek to minimise disruption to the traders, with the market remaining open throughout.
John Gittins, divisional director of Interserve, said: “There are a number of challenges with completing work around a live retail environment. To mitigate these, we have already undertaken some initial enabling works and will complete some of the work outside trading hours to minimise disruption.
“As the building is listed, we will be working closely with English Heritage and the conservation team.”
The market started in 1822 and is famously where Marks & Spencer had its first stall, a fact commemorated since 2013 by the retailer with a modern-day market stall.
Cllr Richard Lewis, Leeds City Council’s executive member responsible for regeneration, transport and planning, said: “We are very pleased to have appointed Interserve to complete one of the most exciting developments happening in Leeds today. By working together we will create a highly successful, profitable and sustainable destination market, which is a centre of excellence for independent retailers and entrepreneurs.
“Kirkgate Market is a prime retail location with a major historical and cultural significance for Leeds, so it is only right that we invest in its future now to make it a sustainable and ‘go to’ destination for generations to come.”
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