The Open Market - New Plans

New plans to redevelop the Open Market between London Road and Ditching Road go to the Council's Policy & Resources Committee later this month. At a cost of around £9 million the site would be redesigned around two three-storey squares.

On the ground floors would be 56 permanent market stalls and one shop which would front Ditchling Road. The internal squares would be used both for visiting markets, such as Farmers' Markets and French Markets, and as spaces for entertainment. One could imagine street events during the Brighton Festival being put on.

On the first floor would be 58 workshop units for arts and crafts, and a cafe.

A total of 28 apartments would also be included, mostly on the second floor. All would be affordable housing units.

The proposal is being led by the Open Market Traders Association who are creating a new not-for-profit company to lead the development. The Co-op is also interested and are part-funding the costs of working up the proposals. The Co-op is interested in finding ways that their present department store can be redeveloped. The Council will provide expert advice as needed.

All in all, it sounds promising.

Open Market Link