The next phase of the multi-million-pound project to transform Glossop's Market Hall and Town Hall has been given the go-ahead. 

Members of High Peak Borough Council’s Development Control Committee voted unanimously to approve the plans that include the installation of a new mezzanine, stairwells, and retail units at ground and mezzanine floor level.  

New access ramps as well as a replacement lift are included in the plans as well as the general refurbishment of the arcade area and the prevision of improved toilet facilities. 

Commenting on the importance of the project at Monday's meeting in Buxton, Councillor Graham Oakley said: “I feel we only get one chance to get this right.  

“If we don’t get it right, we should be held to account. It is really important we get it right first time.” 

He said as it involved such an important and historic building the council needed to ensure planning officers had the right support and expert advice from conservation professionals to help oversee the project. 

“We are spending an enormous amount of money and it will take more than a year to complete all the work,” said Cllr Oakley. 

A decision on the application had been deferred from an earlier meeting, in a move proposed by Cllr Emily Thrane to allow for a site visit and give time for outstanding detailed information to be provided. 

She said: “Having actually seen the proposals in the building, we have been around this morning, I am now content to propose the recommendation for approval.”  

Seconding the move, Cllr David Lomax said: “It was certainly worthwhile visiting the site and I would like to thank Cllr Thrane for suggesting that. 

“I think is does present a very exciting new phase for this building one that was very desperately needed in terms of making good use of the building. 

“I note it will not be ideal for some existing users but think it needs something different to attract people into the building and ensure its continued use for years to come. This does give that opportunity. 

He added that he was concerned about how the building was going to be heated and it was a “missed opportunity” in light of the climate change emergency that solar panels had not been used. 

The application was approved, subject to more than 20 conditions. 

Read more from the Glossop Chronicle

Click here for more of the latest news

Click here to read the latest edition of the paper online

Click here to find out where you can pick up a copy of the paper