Temporary Huddersfield market plan revealed

Plans have been submitted for a temporary market place to be created during the regeneration of Huddersfield's Open Market.

The Grade II listed building is due to undergo a £16.5m refurbishment, though planning approval has not yet been granted and the plans have attracted a number of objections.

Kirklees Council has said the development will "future proof" the market for future generations.

If approved, the temporary site would be located on land adjacent to the existing market in Brook Street, with 36 indoor stalls, 29 outdoor stalls, car parking, a market operations office, toilet cabins and bin space.

The council said the premises would be designed to maximise the area available for trading and allow safe, continued access to the nearby Tesco.

According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, the application states that demand for market spaces "fluctuates greatly" and accepts that on some days demand will "exceed supply".

A supporting statement on behalf of the council concludes: "Overall, the proposed temporary market occupies the most appropriate and proximate site to the main market, employing lightweight, demountable, and fully reversible construction."

It said the impact on the Conservation Area and the listed Market Hall would be "limited and temporary".

"It enables market continuity during redevelopment, maintaining activity, employment, and public engagement in the town centre," it added.

Concerns over the redevelopment of the historic building have prompted several objections, including a letter signed by 1,000 people.

Some are concerned the plans will make the market unfeasible for some traders and have said it will be in direct competition with supermarkets and other businesses due to its emphasis on food.

However, the council said the plan would allow the market to remain a key part of Huddersfield for people to visit and a place where local businesses can thrive.

A decision on the plan for the temporary market is expected by 19 January.

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