Work begins on Rotherham's £30m markets revamp

The council said the new markets would "breathe new life" into the town

Work has begun on the redevelopment of Rotherham's town centre market complex.

The indoor and outdoor markets, off Drummond Street, are to be modernised and will get a new food hall in the £30m revamp.

A new library with a cafe and gallery will also be built under plans approved in August.

Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council said the work would preserve the town's heritage "while embracing a dynamic future".

"This initiative will not only breathe new life into our community, but also provide economic opportunities for our local businesses," added Denise Elliott, council cabinet member for jobs and the local economy.

"The reinvention of the markets is not just a facelift, but a holistic reimagining that aims to boost the local economy, celebrate our diverse community and provide an accessible, enjoyable space for all."

Rotherham's markets date back to the 13th Century and have been at their current site since 1971, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

A council paper published earlier this year said the existing site was under-utilised and poorly connected to nearby housing.

The local authority said the revamped market will offer more choice, promote local businesses and improve links to residential areas and Rotherham College.

Henry Boot Construction, which is carrying out the project, said it had begun to prepare the site before work on the main building started in early 2024.