SPADES are officially in the ground at Bromsgrove’s major Market Hall development sparking the beginning of the £14.5 million project.
Ground was broken on Tuesday (December 10), by contractors Kier, as the site looks to be transformed into an open-plan pavilion building, suitable for hosting exhibitions, markets, and community events.
The development will also include a separate commercial building with office space, a ground floor restaurant, and a rooftop food and drink outlet.
Leader of Bromsgrove District Council, councillor Karen May, said: “We were delighted to have been at the ceremonial groundbreaking for the project.
“The project promises to revitalise Bromsgrove town centre, bringing in a range of new opportunities for our residents to relax and work within their hometown.”
The council say the project, managed by Arcadis, forms a key cornerstone of plans to transform Bromsgrove town centre into a ‘vibrant space, promoting social interaction and bringing economic growth.’
Hopes for the development are to encourage visitors to the town both day and night.
Managing director, Kier Construction Eastern & Midlands, Mark Dady, said: “This is an exciting project that we are proud to be a part of.
“The modern transformation of the Former Market Hall site will revitalise the High Street and benefit the local community for decades to come.”
The work is expected to be completed by the end of 2025, with funding for the project secured by Bromsgrove District Council in October 2021 – thanks to the UK government’s Leveling Up Fund.
Cabinet member for economic development and regeneration, Coun Sue Baxter, said: “This project represents the importance of regeneration in Bromsgrove.
“The site is key in the town centre and seeing it on its way to being back open with a new purpose as pride of place in the town is welcomed.”
Despite the council’s excitement for the potential this development presents, the plans have been met with concerns during their scrutiny at council meetings.
A local architect and prominent objector to the proposals – Troy Kidsley – detailed his fears on the height of the development which could impose on existing elevations around town.
He also highlighted his concerns on the choice of copper cladding for the facade, which he said is likely to degrade and be costly to maintain.
And both councillors and the public expressed concerns around the lack of parking provision within the ‘car-free’ site and whether the office buildings will be desirable to businesses.
Despite concerns, councillors made the decision to support the development hoping it lives up to its potential.
