Work on the 19th Century 'blockshops', the most historic part of the venue, got underway last year. This week, Leeds City Council announced that the first phase of the project has finished.
A total of 24 units at the market were renovated and improved with features including new canopy fronts, electric roller shutters, extraction ducting, LED lighting and extra storage space. Wider structural work at Kirkgate Market has seen roofing repaired, walkways brightened up with new glazing, new guttering installed and floors lowered to enhance accessibility.
The project team has also taken care to protect the site’s history, with heritage features such as herringbone brickwork being restored to its former glory.
Another 24 units are expected to be given similarly stylish makeovers when the second and final phase of the scheme begins in the next few weeks.
Here are some of the best pictures following the expensive renovation work –
7. Kirkgate Market refurbishment
He added: "The project has been designed to complement other investments by the council in the market, which I’m proud to say has recently been attracting more than 500,000 visitors per month." Photo: Tony Johnson
8. Kirkgate Market refurbishment
Dating back to 1875, the blockshops are the oldest surviving structures at the market and comprise eight two-storey buildings linked by an infill glazed roof. Photo: Tony Johnson