A £720,000 project to transform Knutsford Market Hall into a ‘landmark piece of architecture’ has been unveiled.

Major renovation aims to give the drab building a bright new look to celebrate its 60th anniversary this year.

A new glass frontage with bi-folding and automatic doors have been designed to create a modern image.

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Dramatic changes inside are set to make space for both stalls and events.

Ambitious remodelling could see an open hall which could be used for community use outside training hours.

Councillors hope to open the market seven days a week, instead of the current four.

Food and drink traders may also open in the evenings.

Knutsford Guardian: The current Knutsford Market Hall celebrates its 60th anniversary this yearThe current Knutsford Market Hall celebrates its 60th anniversary this year (Image: Knutsford Town Council)

Knutsford Town Council has submitted a planning application to Cheshire East Council.

A decision is expected by March 25.

Councillors commissioned Knutsford based Hive Architects to draw up a new design.

Town clerk Adam Keppel-Green said: “Knutsford Market Hall was built in 1964 and as it celebrates its diamond anniversary it will be having a major renovation to ensure its ongoing vitality.

“These proposals will create a bright and flexible trading space and enable the building to be used more efficiently for the community.

“Whilst the planning application is being determined we’re now working with our structural engineer and architect on the technical design of the building and developing the design of the internal stall structures.

“We are also working with our traders on the plans to relocate the market into 60 King Street when works take place ensuring our businesses can continue to trade with minimal interruption.”

A design and access statement says: ‘At the moment the market hall relies on existing customers knowing the traders are there.

‘The proposed refurbishment will create a landmark piece of architecture with an identity and presence that encourages new customers to visit and spend time in the space, securing the market hall’s future.”

The existing layout inside will be replaced with low level stalls in a central space with extra seating to make the market feel ‘more open and inviting’.

The proposals include various environmental sustainability features including a sedum roof, solar panels, an air-source heat pump to provide heating and the installation of insulation.

The application, number 24/0336M, can be viewed on the planning portal on the Cheshire East Council website.

The project has received £720,000 from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and the Community Ownership Fund.

The market currently offers a butcher, greengrocer, records, Thai food, café, barber and mobile phone repairs.

A variety of pop-up stalls are being introduced until regeneration work begins.