Plans to improve Ellesmere Market Hall

Bosses of Ellesmere Market Hall are seeking to improve the security and access to the building in Scotland Street.

A proposal has been submitted to Shropshire Council to enclose the existing ramped side access to the building.

Lincoln McMullan, chairman of Altogether Ellesmere which runs the town’s market hall, said he hopes the improvements will also make the venue more marketable for different events.

He said: "The ramp is currently open with banisters providing support along the sides. The scheme will enclose the ramp via the construction of a clay tile roof, a horizontal timber cladding wall and a brick plinth to match with the existing market building.

"The side elevation of the development will include two timber sash windows; whilst the front elevation will include a newly constructed door which will provide the market hall with additional security.

"Due to such factors and the benefits such as improved safety and security that the development will bring to those wishing to attend community events at the market hall, the proposal is deemed acceptable as it will benefit the market hall and the surrounding community."

Mr McMullan said the market hall acts as a "focal point" for the community as it holds a number of community events including the weekly Tuesday market and the annual food and drink festival.

"The proposals will improve the existing facilities to improve the accessibility and comfort of access to people with disabilities; thus, enabling them to enjoy the events with other members of the community," he said.

"It will also provide tradespeople with better security whilst using the ramp to transport their goods.

"The overall aim of the proposal is to improve the design, safety, and comfort of those using the ramp and the security of the building."

Mr McMullan added about £7,000 could be spent on improvements to the facility.

All Together Ellesmere, which leases the market hall on Scotland Street from Shropshire Council, took over the running of it in 2013.

Work to tidy up the building after the change involved creating a new kitchen thanks to a grant of £11,620 from Shropshire Council’s Market Towns Revitalisation Programme.

Shropshire Council hopes to make a final decision on the new application by June 5.

People can comment on the proposals as part of consultation into the scheme by visiting the council website.