Architect appointed for new food and drink hub at Melton market

Market operators and Melton Council have appointed Maber architects to develop what will be the second phase of redevelopment of the site, off Scalford Road.

The proposed scheme is a joint-venture between the council and the private sector and will result in a re-design and improvement of the southern section of the market.

Councillor Joe Orson, chairman of the rural, economic and environmental affairs committee, said: “The market operators approached the council with some exciting and ambitious plans for further developing Melton Mowbray Market.

“Maber architects have now been instructed to help create a vision for a Phase 2 development.

“I see this as a positive next step forward to help the Market realise its full potential.

“At this stage the focus is on both parties exploring the options and feasibility of a food and drinks rural hub.

“While there is not yet a commitment from either party beyond this, if proposals are successful and can materialise I can see this having the potential to be a major draw to Melton Mowbray.”

Funding will be sought from the Leicestershire Local Economic Partnership (LLEP) to help fund the scheme.

Tim Boxford, lead consultant at Maber architects said: “We are thrilled to be working with the council and the market.

“They have some really exciting ideas about how to enhance the market, attract new visitors and bolster Melton Mowbray’s reputation as a national centre for food.

“We have just started the process of pulling together everyone’s aspirations to create what we hope will be a clear and bold vision for the project.

“We are aiming to have some initial design concepts by the end of April.”

Phase one of the market scheme - the £5.5 million redevelopment of livestock facilities - should be complete by early April.

A new cattle building is being built to replace demolished sheds and pens at the market.