KNUTSFORD Market Hall is set to be transformed after securing a half-a-million pound investment towards a £700k makeover.
The interior will be given a complete refurbishment and the frontage will be redesigned to create a brighter more welcoming new image.
Work is due to be carried out next year to mark the Silk Mill Street market’s 60th milestone anniversary.
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Knutsford Town Council is delighted to have secured a £560,000 grant in the first round of the government’s Community Ownership Fund.
Adam Keppel-Green, town council clerk, said: “We were absolutely thrilled to receive news of our success in securing this game-changing level of funding for the Market Hall.
“Thanks to the funding, we will be able to deliver a significant improvement Knutsford Market Hall in 2024, securing its future for decades to come.”
The market, home to a dozen traders, will be given a total makeover.
Stall structures will be replaced to create more storage space and roof lights will be restored.
Improvements will be made to the energy efficiency of the building.
Insulation will be installed alongside closing doors and solar panels.
The full cost of the transformation is estimated at £700,000.
Councillors hope to fund the balance through borrowing, reserves or an additional grant.
The project is at an early phase.
More detailed plans will be developed and announced in the coming weeks, ahead of a planning application by the end of the year.
“Once we have a clear timetable for the project, we’ll be able to determine how to accommodate the traders whilst works are being undertaken to enable their businesses to continue,” said Mr Keppel-Green.
Mayor Cllr Peter Coan said: “Knutsford Market Hall is a fantastic space for small businesses and a vital part of our high street.
“We are delighted to be able to celebrate its 60th birthday in 2024 by giving it a new lease of life.”
The council is grateful to the National Association of Local Councils (NALC) and the Society of Local Council Clerks (SLCC) who worked tirelessly to get this funding open to town and parish councils.
Authentic Thai food, a deli offering olives and Turkish specialities, a traditional barber, second hand vinyl records, fresh fruit and vegetables, a butchers, greeting cards, dog treats and accessories, crystals, handmade cosmetics and café are among the traders.
The market is open every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 8am to 4pm.
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