The historic market in Leicester is poised to undergo a major overhaul. The site will be made "fit for the 21st century", according to mayor Sir Peter Soulsby who has revealed a vision for the future of the market.
The proposals include removing the old wooden stalls, removing sections of the roof to create open space and a new home for an expanded café, reports LeicestershireLive.
Sir Peter said he wanted to create a venue suitable for modern trading and shopping styles with an up-to-date and inviting environment including new paving, better lighting and a shuttered perimeter for security. The estimated cost of the work if approved is £7.5 million.
Sir Peter said: "We want to make sure that Leicester Market has a bright future and that means helping it to adapt to reflect the way that people shop today.
"By reconfiguring the space to reflect current demand for traditional market stalls, we can create new opportunities for new businesses that will complement the existing offer and attract new activity, and new life, to the market area. There's been a busy working market at the heart of our city for centuries and these proposals will help ensure that continues.
"This investment will make sure our historic market continues to serve its loyal customers while attracting a new generation of shoppers to a market that's fit for the 21st century."
Around 70 new stalls would be created to replace the old wooden stalls which would be set out in an improved layout to create better pedestrian routes through the market.
Sections of the market roof on either side of the Corn Exchange would be removed, opening up views of the Grade II-star listed building, while flexible and lockable units, featuring green roofs and solar panels, would be installed.
The space on the opposite side of the Corn Exchange could be used for temporary specialist markets or special events. The city council said it would be speaking to the 55 businesses currently operating from Leicester Market. Work is expected to begin next spring, subject to planning consent, and take around 15 months to complete.
