The Ellesmere Port Market renovation, initially planned for the winter season, has been rescheduled to commence in early 2025. This decision ensures that traders and customers can enjoy uninterrupted services during the festive period.
- Cheshire West and Chester Council confirmed that the refurbishment of the market hall is a part of a broader £13 million Levelling Up Fund initiative.
- To facilitate ongoing operations, market stalls will be temporarily relocated while renovations are underway.
- The renovation includes removing the exterior canopy at the entrance and introducing a flexible event space in the new Flea Market area.
- Residents are invited to propose new names for the transformed market space, with a public vote scheduled for later in the year.
In an effort to support merchants during the bustling holiday season, the substantial refurbishments planned for the Ellesmere Port Market have been deferred. Originally slated to begin in the winter, these developments will now start in early 2025, as confirmed by the Cheshire West and Chester Council. The postponement is aimed at providing stallholders and shoppers with a seamless experience during the holidays.
The phased renovation of the Ellesmere Port Market forms a crucial element of the £13 million project financed by the Levelling Up Fund, a significant investment by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities. As part of the initial changes, the market’s entrance has seen the removal of its white canopy, a preliminary step in preparing the structure for the upcoming transformations.
During the renovation period, market operations will continue with stalls set to shift locations temporarily to minimize disruption. This strategic move ensures that the market remains a vibrant hub for commerce and community interactions despite the ongoing construction activities.
Central to the renovation plans is the development of the Flea Market area into a versatile event venue. This enhanced space will be equipped with upgraded amenities, including new toilet facilities and a stage with an integrated sound system, accommodating a diverse range of events such as additional markets, music festivals, and community gatherings. A dedicated entrance for events will be available when the market is officially closed, broadening the appeal and accessibility of the venue.
The council is actively engaging local residents in the transformation by inviting them to propose potential new names for the Flea Market area. This initiative includes keeping the original Flea Market name as an option. Feedback is encouraged until October 14, with a list of shortlisted names to be presented for a public vote before the year ends. Councillor Nathan Pardoe emphasized the importance of community involvement in reshaping the market into a pivotal event and community space.
The delay in the Ellesmere Port Market refurbishment demonstrates a commitment to sustaining uninterrupted festive trade while planning for future enhancements.
