‘Refurb will help our market thrive again’

Council bosses hope that a makeover and new play area at South Elmsall market will lead to more shoppers and visitors.
South Elmsall market.
Empty stalls.
h313f307South Elmsall market.
Empty stalls.
h313f307
South Elmsall market. Empty stalls. h313f307

Wakefield Council has built a toddler and junior play area as well as carrying out a minor refurbishment to try and revive the market as a meeting place in the town.

South Elmsall councillor Wilf Benson said: “The market is very important to South Elmsall and since the big supermarkets opened across the district it has been struggling.

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“We thought we had got to do something to encourage more people to use it and I think the play area will make a big difference.

“It will encourage children to come down to the market and then their parents will come too. I think it’s a great idea.”

The facilities will include a basket swing, climbing frame, outdoor gym equipment and a table tennis table.

The play and exercise area has been funded by Wakefield Council and is part of the council’s drive to provide spaces for outdoor activity to encourage a healthy lifestyle.

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Coun Benson said: “The supermarkets and new shops opening in the area have taken their toll on the market but it’s time for us to fight back.

“Hopefully, this new scheme will help us with that battle and I think it will.”

Coun Denise Jeffery, cabinet member for economic growth and skills at Wakefield Council, said: “The new play and exercise area is a great addition to the market, and gives children and adults another opportunity to be active.

“I’d encourage residents to come down and to try out the great new facilities for themselves.”