Blueprint revealed for planned marketplace redevelopment
The latest proposals for the redevelopment of Dewsbury’s historic market have been revealed.
Architects, BDP, have been working with Kirklees Council, market representatives and traders, to draw up a design for the market on Cloth Hall Street in the town centre.
The design aims to create a welcoming space where people can expect value the best possible shopping experience. It builds on earlier feasibility studies and public feedback on initial ideas.
As well as food outlets, cafes and beverage stalls, the redeveloped market will feature a flexible seating area and events space which can be used for meeting, eating, drinking and entertainment.
This social space is intended to help encourage people into the market and to spend both time and money there.
Councillor Eric Firth, cabinet member for town centres, said: “Dewsbury Market has been the economic heart of the town centre for centuries and we want to see it remain that way.
“Which is why we’re investing a significant amount of money to redevelop the market under our ambitious Dewsbury Blueprint plans.
“There is £8.3m for both the market redevelopment and to allow Dewsbury market traders to move to a temporary on-street market.
“There is also a further £6.6m, granted earlier this month, as part of wider Dewsbury Town Improvement Plan through the Government’s Towns Fund.
“I’m excited to see the future design which will bring a new lease of life to Dewsbury’s famous market for our residents, visitors and traders.
“The vibrant social spaces it creates will encourage people to work, shop, rest, eat, drink and play, helping local traders, businesses and the town centre to thrive.”
Stephen Marshall, BDP project director, added: “We have spent the first half of 2021 developing the proposals for the market, building on the great work contained within the Dewsbury Blueprint.
“BDP’s architects, engineers, landscape architects and planners have enjoyed working with the team from Kirklees Council through numerous workshops and we’re now really keen to receive feedback from the residents of Dewsbury before we press on with the next stages in the design process.
“We do appreciate how significant this project is for Dewsbury, which has had a market in the town centre since the middle ages.
“The feedback we have had to date has all been very positive, but it is important everyone has an opportunity to have their say.”
Designs for the revamped market are available online at www.kirklees.gov.uk/dewsburymarketsurvey where people can have their say on the plans until 4 July.
