Toilets and Wi-Fi among £400k market improvements
SWANSEA’S award-winning indoor market is set for an improvements package that will see almost £440,000 spent on the venue.
The work will bring public toilets to the city-centre market, along with a multi-purpose communal area, free public Wi-Fi, new interactive LED signs and improved entrances.
Work is due to start this summer, and will be carried out with a close focus on Government social distancing guidelines.
The market, which is managed by Swansea Council, is the permanent home to more than 100 businesses, hosts casual traders and events, and was named Britain’s best large indoor market this year in the Great British Market Awards.
Although the market is currently closed to the public, a number of traders are offering delivery services to help the local community through the coronavirus crisis.
Robert Francis-Davies, Swansea Council’s cabinet member for investment, regeneration and tourism, said: “I’m glad that we can announce this important work.
“With up to 80,000 customers a week and a growing food and drink offer, the market will benefit greatly from these facilities.
“The venue is a key anchor for the city centre, generating significant footfall and helping to set the city apart from other locations.
“Our improvement plan will help ensure the market continues to fulfil this role and that local independent businesses have a home fit for the future. As the city centre benefits from hundreds of millions of pounds’ worth of regeneration over the coming years, the market will remain a focal point.
“We have worked closely with market traders and listened to customers to identify and prioritise the significant improvements that will ensure Swansea Market retains and develops its identity as the heart of the city centre. The improvements focus on strengthening the market’s overall offer to the public and traders.
“Our plan will improve its attractiveness as a destination and further raise its profile as a key shopping attraction and city-centre landmark.”