Work begins on historic market hall restoration

Work has begun on the restoration of a historic Yorkshire market hall, paving the way for improved facilities, expanded trading space and a new food and drink offering.

Contractor Willmott Dixon has started renovating Huddersfield’s Grade II* listed Market Hall, with the project designed to preserve the building’s heritage while modernising its facilities.

The restoration will include essential structural repairs and the reinstatement of its original red, pink and cream colour scheme, complementing its decorative cast-iron frame and glass roof.

Accessibility improvements will include ramps, automatic doors, accessible toilets and a new Changing Places facility.

Once completed, the revamped market hall will accommodate more than 87 pitches, including up to 12 permanent stalls and over 75 demountable stalls.

The latter will be around 50 per cent larger than existing stalls, providing traders with additional space and flexibility.

Plans also include three hot food outlets, an enclosed heated café and a small bar to support events and evening activities.

Chris Yates, Yorkshire director for Willmott Dixon, said: “We’re delighted to be working in partnership with Kirklees Council to deliver a transformation of the historic Huddersfield Market Hall. 

“This is an important project for Huddersfield, creating a refreshed market while paying tribute to its proud heritage to allow the Market Hall to continue supporting the town centre and local traders for many years to come. 

“Our project team and local supply chain partners are excited to get formally underway and we’re looking forward to working with the council, market traders and local community as work continues to progress.”

Hoarding has been installed around the site to separate construction work from shoppers and the temporary market, with increased activity expected as the project progresses.

The renovation of Huddersfield Market Hall and its adjoining market yard is scheduled for completion in spring 2028.

Councillor John Hardie, cabinet member for regeneration, highways and transport at Kirklees Council, added: “Regenerating the historic market hall to secure its future, protect its heritage and build on the existing market offer Huddersfield has, is moving to its next exciting stage.

“People will have seen work take place on preparing the site for the renovation, but they will now see a lot more activity around this beautiful Grade II* listed building.

“The temporary market and stalls are still open as normal offering a range of fresh goods and hidden gems, and our markets team will be continuing to work with traders and customers to support them as we move onto this next phase of work.

“The Huddersfield Market scheme is just one key part of revitalising the town centre as we look to deliver clear benefits for our local communities and people will be able to see the much-loved building carefully restored.”

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