Kirklees Together

A full planning application to progress the regeneration of Huddersfield Market and its surrounding site, one of the flagship projects within the Huddersfield Blueprint, has been submitted.

This exciting scheme has been shaped by residents and traders, most recently through public consultation in Winter 2024. Using this valuable feedback, we have worked closely with Greig & Stephenson Architects to finalise the designs ahead of the application.

The plans promise to breathe new life into the historic market, creating a vibrant, modern space that can thrive for generations to come. The building will open more days each week and for longer hours than the current arrangements, making it a true destination for shoppers and visitors

Cllr Graham Turner, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Finance said:

“Our markets aim to be family friendly, safe spaces which offer unique and personal shopping experiences. We want them to be a place full of opportunities to test ideas, eat, learn, be entertained and most importantly create a space that facilitates economic growth and support traders.”

“Collaborating with the architects, we have developed plans to restore and improve the market to future proof it for generations to come. Huddersfield has and always will be a market town, these improvements will allow the market to continue being a key place for the people of Huddersfield to visit, and a space where local businesses can thrive for many more years to come.”

The new market hall will feature:

• A mix of fixed stalls for traditional market favourites such as fresh produce, butchers, fishmongers, delis, and cheese counters.
• Over 70 demountable stalls for market days, allowing flexible layouts and supporting a diverse calendar of events – from food festivals to community celebrations.
• Hot food vendors, a bar, and a dedicated seating area, encouraging visitors to stay longer and enjoy the atmosphere.

Huddersfield Market, built in 1887, is a Grade II* listed building loved for its decorative cast-iron frame, striking glass roof, and historic character. The regeneration will include essential repairs and restoration, bringing back its original colour scheme of traditional reds, pinks, and creams—honouring its heritage while preparing it for the future.
Accessibility is at the heart of the design, with level thresholds, assisted door openers, accessible toilets (including a Changing Places facility), and increased flat indoor spaces for ease of movement.

Outside, the new Market Yard will provide space for around 50 demountable stalls, with additional capacity for more on busy days creating a lively outdoor trading and events space.

This project is a key part of the Huddersfield Blueprint, which aims to boost footfall and create a more vibrant, varied town centre. It complements the ongoing Our Cultural Heart development, with Phase 1 due to open in summer 2026. Together, these schemes will give residents and visitors even more reasons to spend time in Huddersfield.

To minimise disruption, the Council plans to create a temporary market on land between the current market on Brook Street and the Tesco car park. More details will be shared in the coming months.

If approved, work on the new Huddersfield Market is expected to begin in Spring 2026.