Leeds Kirkgate Market public consultation opens

These are the latest in a series of suggested changes to the market that has about 180,000 weekly visitors

An eight-week public consultation on proposed changes to Leeds Kirkgate Market has opened.

Proposed changes for the market, used by about 180,000 people each week, include replacing parts of the roof and changing its layout.

In January, a plan commissioned by the council recommended the market's size be reduced by 25%.

A public meeting held by the Friends of Kirkgate Market and attended by 200 people in April opposed the changes.

The market is currently wholly owned and managed by the council but several options to change the management of the market are also part of the consultation.

A public meeting on the proposals is planned for November and the consultation is to finish in December.

A final report will be submitted to Leeds City Council's Executive Board in early 2013.