'This is an important moment for Dewsbury': Work begins on £18m revamp of town's market
Work has begun on the £18million redevelopment of Dewsbury Market.
The project is one of the final parts of the Dewsbury Blueprint, Kirklees Council’s long-term vision to create a more welcoming town centre for people to shop, meet and socialise.
A council spokesperson said the redevelopment “balances restoration with transformation”, preserving the market’s distinctive architecture, including its glazed roof and metal structure, while creating a more adaptable, future-proof layout.
The aim is to give it a new lease of life, creating opportunities for traders and businesses while keeping the market at the heart of the town.
The transformation will extend beyond the market hall itself. A new town park and outdoor events space, featuring a children’s play area, water fountains, planting and local artwork, will give people more opportunities to gather and enjoy the town centre.
Construction is expected to be completed in early 2028, with the market opening shortly afterwards.
While work takes place, Dewsbury’s temporary market is already open across Market Place, Longcauseway and Foundry Street, allowing traders to continue serving customers throughout the redevelopment, and residents and visitors to support their favourite businesses while work progresses on the main market.
Coun John Hardie, cabinet member for regeneration, highways and transport, said: “This is an important moment for Dewsbury.
“The market is part of the town’s identity, and this investment is about protecting that heritage while creating a space that works for today and for generations to come.
“With the temporary market already open, traders can continue to welcome customers while work progresses on the main market. The new park and outdoor events space will also give people more opportunities to enjoy the town centre, bringing together shopping, leisure and community life.
“Alongside the Arcade and other improvements across Dewsbury, this is about creating a town centre with a bright future, supporting local businesses and giving residents and visitors even more reasons to spend time here.”
Lee Powell, managing director of HBC Construction, which is carrying out the work, said: “It's always exciting to get the first spades in the ground and start bringing a project to life.
“A huge amount of work and planning goes into getting developments to site, and we're really looking forward to working closely with Kirklees Council and local partners to deliver a new anchor destination for Dewsbury.
“As with all our projects, we are committed to delivering wider social and economic benefits throughout construction.
“We have developed a strong social value and employment programme and are keen to leave a lasting legacy in Dewsbury, just as we have in other towns and communities across Yorkshire.”
The redevelopment is part of a wider transformation taking shape across Dewsbury. The town’s newly refurbished historic Arcade is now open as a community-run shopping destination. Improvements are also taking around the Town Hall and Memorial Gardens.
The council spokesperson said these projects are helping “to shape the future of Dewsbury town centre, creating new opportunities for local businesses and improving the spaces people use and enjoy”.