Market Hall reopening in sight after three years of delays

The renovation of Glossop Market Hall is ‘very nearly complete’ after delays pushed its reopening back by three years.

Originally earmarked for a July 2022 unveiling, the ambitious £7.3m project is now expected to open its doors to the public in 2025. 

The Market Hall improvements are funded by High Peak Borough Council along with a £2m grant from the D2N2 Local Enterprise Partnership, which secures investment money for schemes in Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire. 

Also included are ongoing refurbishments to Glossop Town Hall and the Municipal Buildings, although those are taking more time than anticipated, too. 

"We're making great progress,” said HPBC Leader, Cllr Anthony McKeown. “The work in the Market Hall is now very nearly complete which is a big milestone. The programme of work in the Town Hall is, however, taking a little longer due to the inevitable challenges buildings like these present. 

"This is the biggest investment in these buildings for generations. The transformation we're delivering blends the provision of modern, fit-for-purpose facilities and spaces with the heritage elements that give these important civic spaces their character. 

"It's important that we spend the time now to get the right result when we re-open the buildings next year. What I can promise everyone is that it will be well worth the wait!" 

The Market Hall was built in 1845, while the Town Hall has been closed to the public for at least 20 years. When completed, design documents show there will be room for 17 permanent units – 9 on the new mezzanine – as well as a large space on the ground floor that could accommodate up to 250 covers or pop-up stalls. 

There has been some controversy around the delay in the completion of the market hall, with some suggesting the newly refurbished building didn't meet fire regulations and other health and safety regulations however, High Peak Borough Council's Deputy Leader, Cllr Damien Greenhalgh commented: "Although we are behind schedule, I am delighted to say that the Market Hall is now nearly complete. When you are working on a building with a rich heritage and ensuring this is respected while bringing in modern facilities and spaces to enjoy, some delays can be unavoidable.

 “Our professional design team, working with the Council’s building control inspectors, have been diligent in getting everything in place. All statutory compliance requirements have been followed - fire safety included - and will continue to be so as the construction work draws to a close.

 “We fully expect residents and visitors will be impressed with the Market Hall, Market Arcade and Town Hall with their updated and sympathetic new looks when the complex re-opens. The Market Hall with an additional floor, lift and fully-accessible toilet facilities will provide a game-changing space for people in Glossop to meet, eat and shop with a winning combination of an exciting food and drink, leisure and community use offering.”

He added: "The market hall is looking absolutely fantastic - we're delighted with it and really pleased to be able to share a glimpse so people can see what they have to look forward to. 

"Together with the Town Hall and the Municipal Buildings, these re-purposed buildings at the heart of Glossop is game-changing and will be the focal point of the town because they offer something for everyone. 

"There will be new business opportunities, including for creatives and entrepreneurs, as well as new food and drink, leisure and socialising spaces and places for community use too. 

"We'll be saying more about what's planned, and announcing our operating partner, soon. It's an exciting time, so watch this space!" 

There is no confirmation yet on exactly when the buildings will reopen, or whether the renovation work is running to the £7.3m budget.