Last Tuesday we held a stakeholder meeting regarding the developments on site. This was led by project managers and members from the council to inform stakeholders and traders about the changes onsite. It is pivotal for us to communicate with them and yourselves throughout this whole process as they are a priority to The Stockyard.
This was a causal meeting for members to view the plans and ask any questions they felt necessary. From this, we have uploaded these for you all to see and understand what has been happening behind the scenes and what you can expect for the future.
If there is anything else you would like to ask that you feel has been missed off, please email: fm@meltonmowbraymarket.co.uk, and we answer all enquiries.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1) When will the work begin, and what has caused the delay?
We have been aiming for a May start date for construction; however, the need for a section 106 agreement has extended the timeline before we can begin the work. After this, we will apply to discharge the pre-commencement planning conditions, which requires at least 12 weeks to complete. During this period, the Council is taking the opportunity to refine the cost and design to ensure the project aligns with budgetary requirements. The Council plans to discuss this at an Extraordinary Council meeting before the end of May, which you can watch on the Council’s YouTube channel. Once the conditions are discharged, we will sign the contract with the construction partner and agree a start date to commence the works on site.
2) Are we able to use the carpark until the construction starts?
No, the car park will not be reopened. This decision allows us to start work as soon as possible and to avoid confusion.
3) Is the market closing?
No, the market is not closing, we are intending for the market to remain open elsewhere onsite during the Trader Hall refurbishment period, with minimal interruption to trading. We are unable to state any time period for this at present, as this is dependent on when the Section 106 agreement is in place.
4) What work has happened so far?
The design and planning phases have been completed alongside all surveys and work ahead of the construction. The site has been cleared ahead of the work, with affected tenants relocated elsewhere onsite.
5) Will there be access to the site once construction has started?
There will be controlled access to the site to allow businesses to deliver goods onto the site, with a permit scheme for traders.
6) What changes are in store for the Trader Hall?
This area is set to be transformed into a closed space featuring new flooring, updated lighting, and a new roof. It will evolve into an insulated, multifunctional events venue ideal for various events and markets. Importantly, the food hall will remain unaffected by these renovations and will continue to operate as usual.
7) How long is the construction period?
All being well the current programme is expected to take 12-13 months.
8) What will happen while the toilets are being refitted?
There will be a temporary toilet block whilst that work is ongoing.
9) Will there be any retail units to encourage visitors to the site?
There will be a mix of production units with a retail offering with the greater emphasis to provide the consumer with a food and drink production experience, whilst also providing the opportunity for sampling and purchasing the produce on offer.
10) Will the project be affected by Local Government Reorganisation changes?
No, the project will continue and is likely to be well underway before any changes happen to form a unitary council. Once a new unitary authority is established the ownership will transfer to that new organisation.