Oxford City Council has proposed allocating over £1 million of additional funding to enhance the Covered Market redevelopment, which would bring the total investment to almost £8 million.
The allocation of additional funding, which will be decided at next week's Cabinet meeting (5 February) and is conditional on approval of the Council Budget at the Full Council meeting on 13 February, would allow for additional upgrades to future-proof the historic market while minimising long-term disruption.
The redevelopment of the market, which celebrated its 250th anniversary in 2024, will ensure it remains a vibrant and sustainable hub for independent businesses, residents and visitors for generations to come.
The funding would enable additionalities, including:
- Upgrading services such as drainage, electrics, and utilities in a more sustainable way and to reduce future disruptions
- Further improvements to lighting, signage, and decoration, creating a more welcoming and accessible environment for visitors
- Removal of redundant services and fittings to help declutter the market and improve the appearance throughout
- Infrastructure updates to support greener technologies, including enhanced electrical capacity and provisions for low-carbon initiatives
By combining the additional works with the core masterplan improvements - which include a new public square and seating area, improved entrances on Market Street and High Street, service yard reorganisation and essential building maintenance - the project aims to deliver cost and time efficiencies while minimising future maintenance needs.
If approved by Cabinet, the project team is ready to progress to the next phase, with detailed designs and planning applications set to begin later this year. If the plans are then approved, work on-site could commence late 2026, with the market remaining operational throughout.
The Council recognises that there will be real concerns about disruption to trade during the work. This will be a major area of consideration for all involved in the development as the detailed design and construction plans are developed.
The Council is committed to producing an extensive programme of engagement with tenants and other stakeholders to ensure they have a say and are kept properly updated throughout.
Comment
"Throughout its long history, Oxford's Covered Market has gone through transformations to ensure its continued relevance and character. This additional funding will enable another of those historic milestones, shaping the Market for future generations.
"By future-proofing infrastructure and embracing green technologies, we’re preserving its historic charm while creating a space that meets the needs of our community today and tomorrow.
“We understand there will be concerns about disruption, so we will work closely with tenants and stakeholders throughout the process to keep them informed and involved. We'll listen to their needs, and make sure we do everything we can to meet them as the project is planned and then delivered. "
Councillor Alex Hollingsworth, Cabinet Member for Business, Culture and an Inclusive Economy
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