Historic Kirkgate Market to receive comprehensive overhaul

Leeds City Council has today awarded Interserve with a £12.3M contract – procured via the YORbuild framework – to comprehensively refurbish the iconic Kirkgate Market. The redevelopment will extensively modernise the prestigious Grade 1 listed building – the largest covered market in Europe.

Ideally situated at the heart of Leeds City Centre, Kirkgate Market currently attracts in excess of 35,000 visitors per week. Though the redevelopment is expected to last until autumn 2016, Leeds City Council is working to minimise disruption to the 200 permanent businesses housed within the building as well as the 150 traders found outdoors.

The specifics of the redevelopment include:

• The provision of an event space and dedicated cafe.
• The reinstatement of both the 1976 and 1981 halls, together with replacement roofing.
• The introduction of a newly covered daily market within the 1976 hall.
• New pedestrian routes and improved signage, screens and maps.

Of the redevelopment John Gittins, Divisional Director of Interserve, said: “There are a number of challenges with completing work around a live retail environment. To mitigate these, we have already undertaken some initial enabling works and will complete some of the work outside trading hours to minimise disruption.

“As the building is listed, we will be working closely with English Heritage and the conservation team.

“Presently, approximately 1,750 people are employed at the Leeds Kirkgate Market and this project will create a number of additional local jobs, apprenticeships and training opportunities.”

Councillor Richard Lewis, Leeds City Council’s executive member responsible for regeneration, transport and planning added: “We are very pleased to have appointed Interserve to complete one of the most exciting developments happening in Leeds today. By working together we will create a highly successful, profitable and sustainable destination market, which is a centre of excellence for independent retailers and entrepreneurs.

“Kirkgate Market is a prime retail location with a major historical and cultural significance for Leeds, so it is only right that we invest in its future now to make it a sustainable and ‘go to’ destination for generations to come.”

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