People’s Market Transformation Plans ‘Gathering Pace’

Plans to turn one of Wrexham’s indoor markets into an arts hub are ‘gathering pace’ say Wrexham Council.

Wrexham Council is working with traders on what they described as an “exciting project that will transform The People’s Market into a modern cultural centre, as well as a vibrant shopping experience”.

The building currently houses market stalls on the ground floor, and car parking on the upper floors.

But once redeveloped, it will include up to 30 market stalls and shops sitting alongside galleries, performance spaces, studios and other features designed to provide a platform for arts and culture in Wrexham.

This week stallholders met with council officers to discuss details. Councillor Neil Rogers, who has lead responsibility for the local economy, said: “This is a huge project that will transform a building badly in need of some investment into an attractive arts centre and market.

“However, there are lots of practical challenges to overcome, including how we help stallholders keep trading while the building is being developed.

“Indoor markets are an important part of the town centre, and that’s why we’re working closely with traders on how we manage this work.”

Wrexham Council have said work is expected to start in summer 2016.

The design work is being funded by Welsh Government, through its Vibrant and Viable Places scheme, and by the Arts Council of Wales.

National Market Traders’ Federation representative Barry Williams, who also runs a business from The People’s Market, said: “Anything that helps inject energy into the town centre is obviously a good thing, and many traders are keen to be part of that.

“However, it’s inevitable that a redevelopment of this size will create a certain amount of disruption.

“So it’s important we work with the council to try and minimise the impact on traders’ livelihoods while work is taking place, ensuring a strong future for the market.”

There is an ongoing thread from January on the project on the Wrexham.com forums viewable here.