A major revamp is being planned for Wellington’s historic market which could boost both tourism and jobs.
Officials from The Wellington Market Company, part of the Town and Country Markets brand, have created a presentation on proposals to rejuvenate the area.
This includes investing £160,000 into restoring the market’s Victorian facade, subject to grant approval. Malcolm Ball, chief executive of the company, also has visions of restoring the market in the future to become the ‘hub’ of the town.
Other proposals, based on recapturing Wellington’s Victorian glory, include opening up the ground floor of the existing market and creating a roof to the outside trading area.
More trading space would also be added, new permanent units introduced and boosting units either side of the Walker Street route.
Company bosses will also explore the development of food and wine tasting, hoping these proposals will give the town a tourism and jobs boost.
Mr Ball said plans will need a large financial investment but hoped it would put Wellington on the map with a reputation similar to Ludlow.
Mr Ball is now bringing his ideas to community groups in a bid to win support. He will also be looking towards grant bodies for funding.
He said: “It won’t be achieved overnight, it will be a long term process. It will only work if the council and others are on board.
“I keep stressing it’s still in the conceptual stage. Once I know there is support and desire for the success of the project, I will look at the practical aspects of delivery and how our traders will be part of our future. I do not, and will not deliver false hope.”
Mr David Riley, president of Wellington Chamber of Commerce, said: “The Chamber warmly welcomes the proposal for investment in the market.
“The market is the town’s most significant retail anchor and driver of footfall.
“It’s therefore critical that Malcolm Ball receives as much support as possible to help deliver his initiative, particularly as it not only benefits the town’s commercial centre, but also the broader community of Wellington and indeed beyond.”
Wellington borough and town councillor Gary Davies commented: “Wellington, as are a lot of towns, is going through a difficult period and here we have a market company prepared to do something for the benefit of the town.
“I hope the market company will go forward with these plans.
“It will benefit the market town and, without a doubt, will help the recovery of the town to its former glory.”