PLANS for the future of Bradford's two city-centre markets will be examined by a council scrutiny committee next week.

Bradford Council had been considering merging the city's Oastler and Kirkgate markets onto one site.

Now it aims to retain both markets while it assesses the impact of the new Broadway shopping centre.

It still has the long-term aim of merging the markets at an expanded Oastler Centre.

A new report going before the Council's regeneration and economy overview and scrutiny committee says the aim is to re-focus Oastler market on a "food-related offering in line with national trends".

The redevelopment is expected to cost £3.8 million.

This would be funded by £1.6 million of Council money already set aside for markets, £450,000 from reserves and borrowing of £1.8 million.

It says: "Another important dimension to the long-term success of the Oastler Centre and the 'top of town' is the need for the Westgate multi-storey car park to continue to operate as an attractive arrival point and car park in the city centre.

"It is in need of maintenance and renovation to extend its life by another 20 years."

The report says refurbishment proposals are now being drawn up.

The report adds: "Officers from the economic development service will continue to negotiate with the owners of the Kirkgate Cenre to establish their short to medium term investment plans for the centre and market to help ensure this area of the city centre also remains thriving and vibrant."