Coventry’s much-loved and Grade II listed indoor market is to benefit from external improvements after a commitment to invest at least £1.25 million.
Plans to insert new glazing in the lower section, which would allow more light in, create wider doorways and improve the link of market businesses to the new public realm, are planned for the exterior of the building.
A team of architects who specialise in listed buildings have created sympathetic designs for the ambitious improvement works. Planning permission is being sought to also add new lighting and illuminated signage, as well as public art.
The investment for the initial stage of work comes from the West Midlands Combined Authority, Pride in Place funding and the Hill Group, with hope that other work in the plans can be completed in later phases with more funding.
Councillor Dr Lynnette Kelly, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Jobs and Regeneration, said: “Coventry Market is at the heart of the new City Centre South public regeneration.
“Our traders have been asking for investment in this building for a number of years, and I'm delighted that we're now able to deliver it. This is a really positive step that will make a genuine difference to the businesses who work here every day, and to the shoppers who use the market.
“We want to make sure that our traders can continue to provide their wide variety of services to the public, but in a more modern environment that is better suited to their needs, which still retains the unique design of the listed building.
“The Council recently acquired ownership of the Market and so it is an ideal time to plan these improvements so they are complete when the new residents of City Centre South will be moving in.
“Thanks to Pride in Place funding from the government and further investment from City Centre South developer the Hill Group, we can start work in the new year, subject to planning approval.
“With any building work, there will inevitably be some disruption and we ask that residents and businesses continue to remain patient and support the amazing businesses Coventry Market has to offer.”
The City Centre South scheme is also delivering significant servicing improvements for the Market traders. From 2028, there will be a purpose built, covered service yard for the traders to service their stalls as well as providing segregated waste facilities for the Market.
Chris Charley, Secretary of Coventry Indoor Market Committee said: “We are extremely excited for this amazing announcement and investment in the future of the market.
The announcement shows a firm commitment to the future of the market and bringing it up do date with the rest of the city centre.
Some traders will be impacted so we are actively working with the council to minimise this. We look forward to the improvements starting and ushering in a much smarter, better-looking market for the people of Coventry.
Stuart Bale, Regional Director at The Hill Group said: “We are pleased to support Coventry City Council in delivering these improvements to Coventry Market. The Market is an important part of the city's heritage and future success, and these enhancements will help strengthen its role within the wider City Centre South regeneration.
“By improving accessibility, visibility and connectivity between the Market and the surrounding public realm, we can help create a more attractive and welcoming destination that benefits traders, residents and visitors while complementing the new homes and public spaces being delivered nearby.”
Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands. added: “Coventry Market has been at the heart of the city for generations, and I want to see it thriving for generations to come.
“This investment will give the market a new lease of life, supporting local traders and making it an even better place for families to shop, meet and spend time.
“This is exactly the kind of change I want to see right across the West Midlands breathing new life into our town and city centres and creating places that people are proud to call home.”