The new, improved Elland market reopens on Friday 9 February in its original position of the Market Square, as part of a £6 million transformation of Elland town centre.
Funding from the Government’s Future High Streets Fund is transforming the centre of Elland supporting improvements to public spaces, the main shopping areas around Southgate and the refurbishment of the community Cartwheel Club.
The weekly Elland market will now return to the Market Square area of the town, following works to make the area welcoming, vibrant and a great place to spend time.
The area where the market stalls are positioned has been upgraded, with new local stone flags and anchor points to enable the stalls to be properly secured. Further improvements include the addition of an attractive new garden area, with seating for people to relax and socialise.
New trees and planting around the market will be added in springtime to further the new look and feel and contribute to climate action. Changes to Elizabeth Street are also proposed to improve safety for market visitors and increase the flexibility of the market space, allowing for events such as larger, specialist markets.
The market will be officially opened at 9am on Friday 9 February by Cllr Sarah Courtney, Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Towns, Tourism and Voluntary Sector, and Cllr Silvia Dacre, Cabinet Member for Resources.
Over 20 market stalls will be there on opening day, selling a range of locally produced and fresh goods including coffee, pies, cakes, cheese, fish, sweets, dog treats, crystals, crafts and scented products.
Cllr Sarah Courtney, said:
“The transformation of the Market Square in Elland is a major milestone in the Future High Street works, with over £6 million developing the town as a destination where businesses can flourish, and people choose to spend more time.
“Further works around the town will support better flow and movement of traffic, with the pedestrianisation of Southgate making it feel safer and look more attractive. This will also improve links with the market and subsequently encourage new and increased footfall right across the town.”
Cllr Silvia Dacre, said:
“Elland has a proud history, and the town’s market has been at the heart of the community for over 700 years. These significant improvements will support its bright future, with an improved layout, attractive new garden and more space for traders to transport goods.
“There are lots of benefits to trading at Calderdale markets. Whether you have a fledgling business idea, are looking to expand an existing business or explore new locations, there’s support and incentives available at a variety of locations across the borough, including in Elland.”
Elland Charter Market takes place every Friday, with stalls costing just £12 a day. For more information about markets in Calderdale, visit www.calderdale.gov.uk/markets or get in touch with the markets team at marketsd@calderdale.gov.uk or by calling 01422 393584.
The Elland Future High Streets work is part of the Next Chapter for Calderdale to enable economic growth, reduce inequalities and build a sustainable future. For more information about this and other major developments in Calderdale, visit www.calderdalenextchapter.co.uk(external link).