Alamy3BAW37X The new Darley Street Market facility in the centre of Bradford[/caption]A CITY centre has lost two historic markets in one day but shoppers only have to wait two weeks for a swanky replacement. This weekend marked the final day of trading for stallholders at the Kirkgate and Oastler markets in Bradford. AlamyOastler Market in Bradford closed its doors for the final time on Saturday[/caption]AlamyBuilt in 1975, Kirkgate Shopping centre is due to be demolished[/caption]Both markets shut on Saturday, June 28 and some traders have been offered stands at the new Darley Street Market.
The historic Kirkgate Market opened in the 19th century and Oastler Market in the 1930s. Both have been important destinations over the years before online shopping saw a downturn in footfall.The old sites will eventually be demolished to make way for 1,000 new homes as part of a regeneration scheme.
But after seven years Darley Market will open next month on July 12 and 13 after the scheme was first approved in 2018 by Bradford Council. The new market will feature spaces for eating, drinking, live entertainment in addition to traditional stalls. Some traders, such as the fishmongers, butchers, greengrocers and the iconic Roswitha’s deli will be moving to the more modern market.
People could be seen visiting Kirkgate and Oastler for the final time as they took photos around the long-standing sites. It’s a historic juncture in Bradford city centre’s constantly evolving story. Traders.