Leek’s indoor markets are set to reopen in October, according to Staffordshire Moorlands District Council.
Work on the £3.7m refurbishment is now well underway, with the aim of broadening the appeal of the markets and providing flexible space for events and community use.
Councillor Matt Swindlehurst, cabinet member for leisure and tourism, said: “We’re making terrific progress with the construction elements of this project and it’s great to see it really starting to take shape now.
“We’re on track for opening in the autumn as planned and I’m really looking forward to sharing the results of this significant investment with the people of Moorlands – and those from further afield.”
He added: “We want shoppers and businesses alike to benefit from the improvements we’re making in providing facilities everyone can enjoy.
“The three new street food outlets are a great opportunity for food and drink businesses to join the market.
“As well as regular trading days on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, we are developing an events programme with extended opening so there’ll be plenty of hungry people to feed!”
Enhancements include the installation of wifi, CCTV, heating (including solar panels and air source heat pumps) and improved energy performance.
In the Trestle Market, the refurbishment will create a flexible retail and events space with three new food and drink outlets with customer seating.
Heritage features, including the glazed tiling and the roof trusses, are being preserved and the imitation slates on the roof have been replaced with real slate.
Work will also start on the major redevelopment of Brough Park Leisure Centre in October, and plans are being drawn up for refurbishing the Nicholson Institute as part of a wider town regeneration scheme.
