WORK is finally set to begin on Darley Street Market after the construction contract was signed this week.

The £23 million project will see the former Marks & Spencer building demolished to make way for a multi storey market and outdoor public square.

Once the market opens in Summer 2023 the Oastler Market and Kirkgate markets will shut, with the Oastler building demolished to make way for a housing development.

Last year Bradford Council announced that Kier Construction would be behind the market build, and the formal construction contract was signed on Thursday.

Demolition will take place between April and December.

Work was originally meant to start last Spring, but was delayed by the pandemic.

A spokesman said: “The pandemic meant essential structural surveys were unable to be undertaken, which were essential in order to finalise the building design and ensure the adjoining buildings would be structurally stable when properties on Darley Street are demolished.”

Section of lost Bradford building to be refurbished as part of market plan

The new Darley Street Market will feature offering three floors of non-food, fresh food and hot food and drink.

In addition, the new market square will host ad-hoc commercial, leisure and community events throughout the year.

A release from the Council said: "The market’s hot food and drink offer will provide seating for up to 500 customers and include a stage for day and evening entertainment. The hot food offer which will follow an independent, street food style concept, will provide informal indoor and outdoor communal seating to allow customers to linger and experience the theatre of markets."

Councillor Alex Ross-Shaw commented: “We’re delighted Kier are joining the team to deliver Darley Street Market and reshape such a historic part of Bradford city centre. Their commitment to social value through apprenticeships and school and colleges are a real testament to the Council’s social value policy when contracting partners and it’s great to have them on board.

“The new market and the regeneration of the area has been designed to positively impact Bradford and become a new key shopper destination in the city centre. After what we know has been a tough year for the city and for many local independent traders, we hope the markets’ redevelopment will show the council’s commitment to support these traders with the new market square will be a quality public space for the whole district to enjoy.”

Dan Doherty, regional director at Kier Regional Building North & Scotland, said: “We are pleased to be starting on site and we look forward to working collaboratively with Bradford Council, as well as our local supply chain to deliver this important project.”