'Exciting times for Wellington' as contractors appointed to turn historic market into 'modern, thriving venue'
Contractors and architects have been appointed ahead of an ambitious refurbishment of Wellington Market.
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Telford & Wrekin Council has appointed Pave Aways Ltd to deliver refurbishment works which will transform Wellington Market.
Leeds-based Group Ginger Architects, which has designed other market projects including Doncaster Corn Exchange and Scarborough Market Hall, will also work alongside Pave Aways.
The council, along with Pave Aways and its architects, said it will further liaise with traders to work through "programme, phasing and business needs" to ensure a "business as usual" approach while the works take place.
Telford & Wrekin Council said the project will "transform the historic market into a modern, thriving venue which will sit at the heart of Wellington’s leisure, retail and entertainment offer".
A spokesperson for the local authority said it aims to "retain and improve the market as a retail, food and leisure hub, deliver an arts and entertainment programme (building on the success of the late night markets) giving people access to a variety of events, provide quality spaces for existing and new small independent businesses and boost the local economy by increasing the number of visitors to the town".
The works will also improve the layout of the market, accessibility and "flow" through the building but retain the market’s historic features.
Telford & Wrekin Council recently secured more than £12m in central government funding to deliver the market project and other projects in the town.
They include the restoration of 1 Walker Street to create new retail spaces and apartments and the refurbishment of the Wellington Orbit cinema.
Council leader Lee Carter said: “We are pleased to have appointed Pave Aways as the main contractor meaning that works to preserve and transform the market for generations to come is now a step closer.
“We’ve taken the time to carry out comprehensive surveys needed to understand the fabric of the building and secure a delivery team who can deliver our investment proposals.
“We want to work closely with traders throughout the next stages of the project to ensure they are fully engaged in all the new plans. These are exciting times for Wellington Market and Wellington town centre.
"We are proud to be moving forward with this project, part of an investment to improve Wellington’s public spaces and a wider 'Investing in Telford and Wrekin' programme.
“This investment will make the town centre better for everyone – whether you live here, work, or are visiting.
“It will be a more attractive area, support businesses and improve the economy. We are committed to creating a better future for Wellington and we can’t wait to see the transformation begin.”
Pave Aways managing director Steven Owen said: “Pave Aways is proud to be breathing new life into the historic Wellington Market. By working with our skilled local workforce and trusted supply chain, we’re ensuring that investment stays within the community while creating valuable apprenticeship opportunities.
"This project builds on our ongoing work in Wellington, where we are refurbishing the former YMCA building on Walker Street and carrying out decarbonisation work at Wellington Civic & Leisure Centre.
"As a local contractor, we're committed to making a real difference in Wellington. Our support extends to local schools, businesses, and community causes, all with the aim of enhancing community assets and creating a lasting positive impact for the area.”
