Transformation of historic market begins

A historic West Yorkshire market is set for a new lease of life as work begins on an £18 million redevelopment aimed at revitalising a town centre.

HBC Construction has started work on the transformation of Dewsbury Market, which forms part of Kirklees Council’s wider Dewsbury Blueprint regeneration programme.

The project will see the historic market hall restored, preserving its distinctive metal architecture and glazed roof while introducing modern facilities designed to attract more traders, shoppers and visitors.

Plans also include a new outdoor events space and town park, complete with a children’s play area, water fountains, landscaping and public artwork.

Officials say the improvements will create a more welcoming, accessible destination, combining traditional market trading with leisure and community activities throughout the day and evening.

Lee Powell, managing director of HBC Construction, said: “It’s always exciting to get the first spades in the ground and start bringing a project to life.

“A huge amount of work and planning goes into getting developments to site, and we’re really looking forward to working closely with Kirklees Council and local partners to deliver a new anchor destination for Dewsbury.

“As with all our projects, we are committed to delivering wider social and economic benefits throughout construction.

“We have developed a strong social value and employment programme and are keen to leave a lasting legacy in Dewsbury, just as we have in other towns and communities across Yorkshire.”

Construction is expected to finish in early 2028, with the refurbished market and surrounding public spaces opening shortly afterwards.

To allow trading to continue during the works, a temporary market has been established across Market Place, Longcauseway and Foundry Street, with Kirklees Council working alongside traders to manage the relocation.

Councillor John Hardie, Kirklees Council’s cabinet member for regeneration, highways and transport, added: “This is an important moment for Dewsbury.

“The market is part of the town’s identity, and this investment is about protecting that heritage while creating a space that works for today and for generations to come.

“With the temporary market already open, traders can continue to welcome customers while work progresses on the main market.

“The new park and outdoor events space will also give people more opportunities to enjoy the town centre, bringing together shopping, leisure and community life.

“Alongside the Arcade and other improvements across Dewsbury, this is about creating a town centre with a bright future, supporting local businesses and giving residents and visitors even more reasons to spend time here.”

The scheme marks HBC Construction’s third major market redevelopment project in Yorkshire over the past decade, following its work on Barnsley Markets at The Glass Works and its ongoing regeneration of Rotherham Markets.

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