A date has been set for Leek’s rejuvenated indoor markets to re-open following a £3.7 million refurbishment – and there are new business opportunities too.
The project is set to fling open its doors in October after “terrific progress” has been made on the construction phase.
It is one of three schemes in Leek funded by £17.1 million Government Levelling Up money awarded to regenerate the town centre.
The aim is to broaden the appeal of the markets to a wider range of customers and traders and provide flexible space for events and community use.
And a key part of the project is providing new business opportunities, with Staffordshire Moorlands District Council now looking for street food vendors for the new outlets in the Trestle Market.
The council is also advertising for a Market Officer in relation to the project with the aim to take the markets’ service “to the next level”.
Enhancements include the installation of wi-fi, CCTV, heating – including solar panels and air source heat pumps – and improved energy performance.
Investment in retail spaces and shopfronts in the Butter Market will improve the shopping experience. In the Trestle Market, the refurbishment will create a flexible retail and events space with three new food and drink outlets with customer seating.
Heritage features including the glazed tiling and the roof trusses are being preserved and the imitation slates on the roof have been replaced with real slate.
Councillor Matt Swindlehurst, Cabinet member for Leisure and Tourism, said: “We’re making terrific progress with the construction elements of this project and it’s great to see it really starting to take shape now.
“We’re on track for opening in the autumn as planned and I’m really looking forward to sharing the results of this significant investment with the people of Moorlands – and those from further afield.
“We want shoppers and businesses alike to benefit from the improvements we’re making in providing facilities everyone can enjoy. The three new street food outlets are a great opportunity for food and drink businesses to join the market.”
To find out more about more about the project and to contact the council about the food and drink vendor opportunities, click here.
Work will also start on the major redevelopment of Brough Park Leisure Centre in October and plans are being drawn up for refurbishing the Nicholson Institute as part of the wider town regeneration scheme.
