Work to start on revamp of cattle market

Redevelopment work is set to start on a historical market in Leicestershire.

The Stockyards – a food and drink venue that is part of Melton's Cattle Market – will be getting a major facelift over the next year.

Melton Borough Council has announced hoardings and fencing will be going up around the site from Monday in preparation for work to begin, said the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

Public parking on site will be stopped from Monday 17 March until 2026, when the work is due to finish.

The plan to turn the space into a potential cultural destination for food lovers was given the go ahead by Melton's planning committee last month.

It will create 110 permanent jobs and attract an estimated 50,000 extra visitors, the council said.

The work will include the addition of a new events space and four new buildings.

It is part of a wider project with Rutland County Council under the Rural Innovation in Action scheme, which received combined UK Government Funding of £22.95m.

Council leader Pip Allnatt said the preparation of the site was "a significant step forward for this project".

He added: "We understand the temporary inconvenience caused by the closure of the current parking area, but we are confident that the new development will bring long-term benefits to our residents and visitors.

"The space will not only provide ample parking but will also serve as a vibrant venue for events, bringing people together and fostering a sense of community spirit.

"We appreciate everyone's patience and cooperation during this period of change."

Hugh Brown, CEO of site operator Gillstream Markets, called the scheme "a huge project for the benefit of the market, the town and the wider area".

He promised specific guidance would be given to traders, tenants and event organisers as the building work continues.

While work is taking place, alternative parking will be available at nearby council car parks, including the short-stay facilities in Wilton Road and the long-stay car park in Scalford Road.

The council said livestock market customers will still be able to park in the north of the site, while separate arrangements were being made for Stockyard tenants.

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