Holmfirth Market, a beloved trading hub in the town, is undergoing a significant change as it prepares to relocate and rebrand itself as Holmfirth Community Market. The last trading day at its current location in the market hall is set for Saturday, May 13, with the new market opening its doors on Thursday, May 18.
Holmfirth Forward, an organization that applied to run the market in December 2021, was successful in its bid and is eagerly anticipating the launch of the market in its new setting.
The newly named Holmfirth Community Market is a community-led, not-for-profit venture managed by local individuals with diverse interests in the town centre. Their goal is to promote Holmfirth as an appealing place to live, work, and visit.
A spokesperson for Holmfirth Community Market expressed enthusiasm for the future, stating, “Together with the current stall holders, it will grow into a lively, modern market which serves local people and attracts visitors. Building on Holmfirth’s rich heritage, Holmfirth Community Market will help secure its future as a vital and vibrant market town.”
The market will temporarily relocate to Crown Bottom, situated between the Co-op car park and Methodist Church, providing a convenient outdoor setting. The last day of trading at the current Huddersfield Road location is scheduled for Saturday, May 13.
Moving forward, the market will operate on Thursday and Saturday mornings, featuring a diverse range of traders offering fresh fruit and vegetables, homemade bread, cheese, and fish.
The chosen outdoor location, situated on a primary pedestrian route with nearby parking, aims to enhance accessibility for customers. Even if shoppers forget their reusable bags, they need only walk a few meters to the conveniently located car park.
Holmfirth Forward has collaborated closely with the support of the Holme Valley Parish Council to ensure a smooth transition and minimize disruption for traders during the move. The collective efforts of these organizations aim to create a seamless experience for both vendors and customers.
Councillor Will Simpson, the Cabinet Member for Culture and Greener Kirklees, expressed his belief that the market’s presence would contribute to the overall retail offering for residents and visitors alike.
He hopes the market will increase footfall in the town, benefitting all local businesses. Simpson emphasises the importance of support from traders and residents for the success of Holmfirth Community Market.
Looking ahead, Holmfirth Forward envisions a permanent home for the market in the proposed new event space, an integral part of the Holmfirth Blueprint vision. As part of the town’s development plan, the current market hall will be demolished to make way for the Holmfirth Town Access Plan, a significant step toward realizing the Holmfirth Blueprint’s goals.
With the impending relocation and rebranding, Holmfirth Market’s transformation into Holmfirth Community Market signifies an exciting new chapter for the town. The market’s revitalisation aims to enrich the community, preserve the town’s heritage, and foster a vibrant atmosphere for traders and visitors alike.
