Work to transform Shipley Market Square completed ahead of City of Culture event
Work to drastically re-shape Shipley Market Square has been underway since February
Last updated 8th Sep 2025
“TRANSFORMATIONAL” works to a town centre market have been completed ahead of a major City of Culture event later this month.
Since February work to drastically re-shape Shipley Market Square has been underway, and the new space is now open to the public.
The scheme, funded through the Government’s Shipley Towns Fund, has seen the previous fixed market stalls removed to create a more open space.
Large canopies have been installed in the centre of the square, and raised planters and “rain gardens” created – bringing more greenery to the area.
New seating in the square has also been created.
Future markets will take place at pop up stalls and gazebos, and the new, larger public space will be used to host town and community events.
Shipley won’t have long to wait until the first event at the refurbished site.
On September 26 and 27, the ‘Bloom’ event, part of Bradford 2025, will involve a “large-scale circus performance celebrating the spirit of Bradford and its people” in the Market Square.
Work to re-open public toilets next to the square is continuing.
Visitors to the square can also enjoy a poem on the path which snakes round the square, with a letter on each paving flag.
Written by pupils from Shipley CE Primary School, working with The People Powered Press, it reflects all that they love about the town and their hopes for the future.
Councillor Alex Ross-Shaw, Bradford Council’s Executive Member for Regeneration, Planning, and Transport, said: “It has completely transformed the centre.
“By creating an inviting and flexible space, we hope to increase footfall, support our shops and restaurants, and help businesses to thrive. This is a significant step towards creating a vibrant and adaptable town centre with a thriving market.”
Gill Thornton, Chair of the Shipley Towns Fund Board added: “The revitalisation of Shipley Market Square really is transformational – from the big changes to the little details such as the poem.
“The children’s words capture the spirit of what we set out to do here, which is make the space inviting for families and to create a place which will benefit the town for years into the future.”
Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said: “This is about more than just bricks and mortar – it’s about creating a place where culture can flourish, local businesses can thrive, and families can feel proud to spend time together.
“We’re committed to boosting Bradford district and building a stronger, brighter West Yorkshire with the UK’s City of Culture at its heart.”
The market development, which has been delivered by Bradford Council, has been funded by £3m acquired through the Government-funded Shipley Towns Fund – a £25m pot to regenerate the area. A further £1m has come from Streets for People funding from the West Yorkshire Combined Authority.