HPBC respond to criticism about market halls regeneration scheme

Old Glossop Councillor Adie Hopkinson, has posted an open statement on social media regarding his long-standing concerns about the multi-million pound project to renovate Glossop’s Market Halls.

Cllr Hopkinson's statement in full reads: 

“It's very rare that a day goes by without someone asking me when the market hall will be opening. 
 
Parkinson's the building contractors completed their work and left the site mid-February. At that time I was told the operator would be moving in imminently. That was 21 weeks ago and no work appears to have been done since. 
 
Press releases have stated that the operator, Fork & Field would be operating under another name and details of that name would be given when formalities had been signed. Fork & Field were given the contract in August 2023. That's two years next month. 

HPBC haven't announced the name they will be trading under, so draw your own conclusions. 
 
During the recent guided tours of the market hall, those leading the tours told each group that the building has not got a fire safety certificate, but that Derbyshire Fire Service were happy for the tours to go ahead. A couple of people on the visits inform me that their groups were told that the market hall will be open in early September. 
 
Concerns have been raised by very well qualified roofing contractors regarding the quality of the replacement roof. I did a site visit and went onto the roof. I have serious concerns and do not want expensive repairs in a few years' time. 
 
To be clear, I want the market hall to be a huge success, but I also want value for money for the residents of Glossop, especially those who elected me. It should be possible to do both. 
 
I have continually been asking relevant questions and will continue to do so. Full minutes of HPBC meetings including my questions can be found on HPBC's website. 
 
I have submitted emails asking the reasons for the delay to opening, suggesting that the council should be more open with residents. This project should have been open in early 2024, however, there have been problems including the extra cost and delay for the fire escape. 
 
I will continue to speak up for those who elected me as "It will be open very soon" has been said too many times. 
 
You deserve answers, it's your money!” 

The Glossop Chronicle contacted Councillor Damien Greenhalgh, Deputy Leader and Executive Councillor for Regeneration, Tourism and Leisure, for his response to the statement. Cllr Greenhalgh said: 

“Our Glossop Halls project represents the most significant regeneration investment in our town for decades – a truly game-changing investment in the heart of our community. At a time when high streets across the country are struggling, we’re really proud to be bucking the trend by breathing new life into some of Glossop’s most cherished heritage buildings. 

“It’s disappointing that Councillor Hopkinson continues to rehash long-settled allegations, questions he has already received answers to on multiple occasions, rather than joining us in celebrating the bright future we’re building for Glossop as we move to re-opening the doors and the excitement is growing. In fact, we’ll be sharing more positive news about the project next week - so watch this space!” 

In response Cllr Hopkinson said: “I look forward to hearing the positive news next week, and very much hope the market halls will be a success.” 

The High Peak Borough Council-led regeneration programme began in October 2022, and is set to create new business opportunities, including for creatives and entrepreneurs, as well as new food and drink, leisure and socialising spaces, and places for community use in the rejuvenated market hall, town hall, arcade and municipal buildings.  

The majority of the work to transform the halls has been funded by the Council with the addition of a £2 million grant contribution from the government.