Historic corn exchange restored to its former glory
A £5m Government-funded revamp of The Corn Exchange building, at Doncaster Market, is now complete.
Originally built in 1870 as a concert hall and marketplace, the grade II listed property features Victorian classical architecture with a dome similar to that on the original Crystal Palace. It has undergone 24 months of restoration.
Works have included vital repair and restoration works, including repairs to the roof, improvements to the drainage, as well as heritage restoration to the windows and stonework.
The scheme has also involved removal of the non-original mezzanine, providing a flexible, open space which will be able to host a range of events from shows to pop up markets.
A range of extra features have been added. These include a new staircase, lighting, better heating, accessible toilets, fire doors and a new ventilation system.
Also, new gallery flooring and 10 retail units have been added, along with improved access around the entirety of the building.
Mayor of Doncaster, Ros Jones, said: “Our treasured Corn Exchange has had extensive restoration, bringing it back to its former glory.
“This completes the latest stage of investment in our Doncaster Markets, making the space both more accessible and versatile so it can thrive in a 21st century city centre, improving the visitor experience and preserving this significant piece of Doncaster history.
“In a nod to its original purpose as a concert hall, the building has also been reconfigured to be able to hold events for over 400 people.
“Over the next few months, the Corn Exchange will offer a variety of events to showcase its return.
“In the lead-up to Christmas people can come along and enjoy an artisan market, Christmas workshops and theatre shows, providing added attractions to our extensive ‘Countdown to Christmas’ line up.
“I look forward to seeing this building play host to events and enterprise once again and I encourage everyone to look at what events are coming up and come and see the transformation for yourselves.”
Raymond Linch, managing director of Market Asset Management, which is the operator of Doncaster Market and the Corn Exchange, added: “With the soft launch set for November, we already have a full calendar of events booked in for the coming months.
“The retail units are set to open in spring 2025 and demand is already high. It’s an exciting time for Doncaster, and we’re proud to have played a part in the Corn Exchange’s next chapter.”
The Corn Exchange will officially open for retail in spring 2025.
