The City of Bradford Council have submitted a planning application for non-material amendments to the new Darley Street Market scheme. 

The amended design sees minor changes to the market’s elevations and frontage – including a reconfiguration of entrances and access to the new public square. If approved, the updated plans will see gates installed to restrict access to the new public square outside trading hours or during events.

The most eye-catching element of the latest application is the introduction of the old Kirkgate Market gates (below) to the public realm. The Victorian Kirkgate Market was demolished in the early 1970s to make way for the current Kirkgate Shopping Centre – but the gates and some decorative stones were kept in storage by the City.

It’s understood that the Council intends to install the restored gates at the southern end of the new public square.

Plans for a new three-storey market on Darley Street – on the site of the former M&S building and other redundant shops – were approved last year. Contractors are currently on-site preparing the vacant buildings for demolition. It’s anticipated that the current Oastler Market and Kirkgate Market will both close when the new market opens in 2023.

Bradford Civic Society’s Place Panel has seen the new design amendments and written to Bradford City Council to share feedback and seek clarity on some elements of the proposal. An update will follow. 

Images © City of Bradford Council