'Important moment' - Dewsbury Market's £18m revamp gets underway
Work getting underway on an £18m revamp to Dewsbury Market is an “important moment’ for the town, a senior councillor has said.
The project is one of the final parts of the Dewsbury Blueprint – Kirklees Council’s long-term vision to create a more welcoming town centre. Construction is expected to be completed in early 2028, with the market due to open shortly afterwards.
The redevelopment seeks to preserve the market’s distinctive architecture, including its iconic glazed roof and metal structure, while creating a more adaptable, future-proof layout, the council says.
The transformation extends beyond the market hall itself, with an inter-connected town park and outdoor events space also in the works. This will feature a children’s play area, water fountains, planting and local artwork.
To allow trade to continue, Dewsbury’s temporary market has already opened across Market Place, Longcauseway and Foundry Street, with traders operating out of shipping containers.
On the last day of trade in the market’s usual premises on September 23, stallholders told of their upset and fears for the future, with several expressing concern specifically relating to the use of the containers.
At the time, cabinet member for regeneration Councillor John Hardie, gave assurance that maintaining a strong market offering for the duration of construction remains a “key priority”.
Since construction works have kicked off, Coun Hardie said: “This is an important moment for Dewsbury. The market is part of the town’s identity, and this investment is about protecting that heritage while creating a space that works for today and for generations to come.
“With the temporary market already open, traders can continue to welcome customers while work progresses on the main market.
"The new park and outdoor events space will also give people more opportunities to enjoy the town centre, bringing together shopping, leisure and community life.
“Alongside the Arcade and other improvements across Dewsbury, this is about creating a town centre with a bright future, supporting local businesses and giving residents and visitors even more reasons to spend time here.”
Aside from the town’s newly refurbished historic Arcade, which is now open as a community-run shopping centre, there have been improvements around the Town Hall and Memorial Gardens.
"The council says that these projects are helping to transform Dewsbury’s streets, buildings and public spaces, building on the town’s heritage while looking ahead to the future.