We want your views to help shape the next phase of Doncaster Markets investment

Earlier this year, Doncaster Mayor Ros Jones and her cabinet launched an extensive 25-year city centre strategy, aimed at improving the city centre and creating a vision that will continue to attract footfall, businesses and investment in the long-term for future generations to enjoy.

Following the start of ongoing work to improve safety in the city centre, and with a number of regeneration projects such as those at the Waterfront and Gateway One now underway, part of the plan will also include a focus on opportunities to enhance the market and the marketplace.

Over the past ten years, the area has already seen significant investment including renovation of the Wool Market and the Corn Exchange, with attention now focusing on how to deliver further improvements and the next phase of investment. Last week, a £20m Government funding package was announced for Doncaster, which includes £7m to continue investment in the Market.

Mayor Ros Jones said: “Part of our plan for the city centre includes a renewed focus on the markets area. Doncaster Markets are one of our most important heritage assets and a vital anchor in the city centre, with excellent market traders and local businesses. I am a huge advocate for our markets and want to protect them for generations to come but we know that every city centre – and as a result every city centre market – is facing difficulties due to the continued rise of online shopping, supermarkets and out-of-town retail centres.

“We have already started the regeneration of the market through the impressive Wool Market and Corn Exchange transformation, but there is more to do.

“That is why we must work together to come up with a plan that has everybody pulling in the same direction. Having spoken with the market traders earlier this month, I know how passionate and committed they are, but we must back them up with a sustainable, long-term vision that everybody can get behind.

“I am hugely passionate about the future of our markets, and I believe the majority of people in Doncaster are too. We are asking you to help us create a vision that everyone can all get behind and work towards by having your say in our survey.”

Councillor James Church Cabinet member leading on Doncaster Markets, said: “It’s vital we hear from as many people as possible so we can look to create something that will benefit the people of Doncaster.

“The feedback we receive will help us to create an action and investment plan, as well as a prioritised list of projects and milestones we can work towards alongside all our market traders, who have been and will continue to be consulted on throughout the entire process.

“Mayor Ros has been clear that the city centre is a major priority for cabinet, and the markets, at the heartbeat of the centre, will play a pivotal role in the vision to create a modern and thriving city centre.”

By filling in the survey, feedback received will be used to help create a long-term strategy for the future of the markets, including where to prioritise current and future investment and development.

To have your say – access the Doncaster Talks webpage and submit your ideas and feedback.