Next steps for Dewsbury Blueprint Market Regeneration project
Kirklees Cabinet will be asked to approve significant investment to transform Dewsbury Market at their meeting on 16 March 2021.
What’s it all about?
The council is planning to carrying out substantial works to the market to make it fit for the 21st century; supporting existing traders, and encouraging more people to visit in the future. Officers are asking that the Cabinet approve the use of the previously allocated capital budget of £8.3M and give their support to temporarily moving Dewsbury Market into the centre of the town whilst regeneration works take place.
The Council and Dewsbury Town Board hope to receive a further £6.6M from the Government as part of the Towns Fund, and are expecting an in principle decision of whether the bid has been successful by the end of March 2021.
The council announced its plans for retail in Dewsbury at the launch of a Blueprint for the town in February 2020, at that time they set out their ambition to regenerate the town centre as part of the £200M investment plan.
Officers will be working closely with architects on the plans for the new market and will be sharing the detailed proposals for consultation in Summer 2021.
What happens next?
In the meantime the council is making plans that will allow existing traders to continue operating in the town, whilst the market hall is out of action. Officers are proposing that the market is relocated to Foundry Street, Market Place, the footpath at Long Causeway outside the precinct and the forecourt of the Town Hall.
If approved the temporary market will be in place from February 2022 until Summer of 2023 when the market will be reopened to the public.
Cllr Peter McBride Cabinet Member for Regeneration said:
“This is an important milestone for the Dewsbury Blueprint, and really demonstrates our commitment to the future of this town, as the market remains one of the most distinct and well-loved parts of Dewsbury. Whilst visitor numbers may have declined, market days are still the busiest in terms of footfall. So, it is important that we maintain that popularity whilst work is carried out on the historic market. By moving the market into the centre of town in the short term we can support our local traders, and help make sure local communities can still benefit from the affordable goods on offer.”
Cllr Paul Davies Cabinet Member for Environment said:
“We want to create a market that is appealing to younger people and families, that celebrates cultural diversity and offers a unique shopping and leisure experience. There will be spaces to eat and be entertained alongside more traditional market stalls. By reducing the number of stalls to reflect current and potential future demand, we can create a more flexible space that meets the changing needs of our customers for years to come. We hope that the new market will attract a diverse range of stall holders that will plug existing gaps in terms of food, drink and leisure opportunities within the town.”
When will the plans be discussed?
Cabinet will discuss the plans at their meeting on the 16 March 2021