Elland Market: Calderdale market which has been at heart of community for 700 years returns to its usual spot after upgrade including new seating and garden

The market square, off Southgate, has new garden area, seating and stone flags.

There are new anchor points to enable stalls to be better secured and plans to plant trees and other greenery in the spring.

Stallholders, who were moved while the improvements were carried out, will be back in the market square from Friday.

The upgrade is part of a £6m transformation of Elland town centre, funded by the Government’s Future High Streets Fund.

Further place include makeovers to other areas around Southgate and the refurbishment of the Cartwheel Club.

Changes to Elizabeth Street are also proposed in a bid to improve safety for market visitors and increase the flexibility of the market space, allowing for events such as larger, specialist markets.

Calderdale Council’s cabinet member for Towns, Tourism and Voluntary Sector Coun Sarah Courtney, said: “The transformation of the market square in Elland is a major milestone in the Future High Street works.

“Further works around the town will support better flow and movement of traffic, with the pedestrianisation of Southgate making it feel safer and look more attractive.

“This will also improve links with the market and subsequently encourage new and increased footfall right across the town.”

Cabinet member for Resources Coun Silvia Dacre added: “Elland has a proud history and the town’s market has been at the heart of the community for over 700 years.

"These significant improvements will support its bright future, with an improved layout, attractive new garden and more space for traders to transport goods.