Chesterfield Market Hall project faces six month delay

The borough council said a lot of work had already gone into organising the project

A £4m refurbishment of a landmark building in Derbyshire has been delayed by at least six months.

Work on both the interior and listed exterior of Chesterfield's 154-year-old Market Hall had been due to start in February.

But the borough council confirmed it was unable to agree a price with project partner Wates Construction.

Officials said the delay was disappointing but they had to get the best possible deal for tax payers.

The council will now invite new tenders and said it expected the project to start in late summer.

John Burrows, leader of the borough council, said: "It's disappointing that we've not been able to accept Wates' tender, but ultimately we could not reach agreement on price.

"Although a re-tender will mean a six month delay to the project, we believe that by opening the contract up to fresh competition, the council will be able to get the best possible price for the work."

Wates Construction said it regretted not being able to reach an agreement.

Until work begins, the Market Hall will remain open six days a week, the council added.

The project has been part funded by the European Regional Development Fund and the Chesterfield Townscape Heritage Initiative.