Pieces of Bradford history to return to city centre

Two sets of ornamental wrought iron panels that formed the decorative crest above the entrance to Bradford’s old Kirkgate Market, are undergoing restoration and are to be placed on display in the new Darley Street Market.

The old Kirkgate market was demolished over five decades ago, but the decorative panels along with a set of cast iron gates were retained by Bradford Council’s museums service.

One of the Kirkgate Market signs (Image: Bradford Council)

One set has until recently been on public display at the Coalbrookdale Museum of Iron at Ironbridge in Shropshire where they have been on long term loan.

The panels and gates, once restored by specialists in heritage architectural metalwork, will be on display in the Market Square and on the hot food and beverage floor at the new Darley Street Market, due to open this Summer.

The area of the new Market Square where a section of the old market signage will be installed (Image: Bradford Council)

Ruan Bester, Commercial Director at Dorothea Restorations, said “We have completed the repair works to the four Kirkgate Market panels and overthrow and all the items have now been abrasively cleaned, ready for protective coating to be applied.

“The repairs works included taking latex moulds of the original components to produce patterns for reproduction.

“Several missing or damaged pieces were recast in grey cast iron and reinstated, and minor cracks were pinned and cast iron welded to secure them before decorations. Over the next few weeks the components with be fully decorated ready for installation.”

Work to restore the antique sign (Image: Bradford Council)

Adam Parker, Director of Greig & Stephenson, Architects, said “The ornamental wrought ironwork has been an important influence in the design of the new market square. 

“Their features are referenced in the curved seating and the new gates to the square. The bespoke curved benches reflect the proportions, form and character of the ornamental panels. The use of local Bradford stone and traditional stone paving setts echoes the important history of the city’s markets.”

Councillor Alex Ross-Shaw, Executive Member for Regeneration, Planning and Transport, said: “The original Kirkgate Market still holds a special place in the hearts of many Bradfordians and these entrance features are important heritage objects for the district.

“They help to tell the story of how markets have evolved in Bradford over the years, and I’m delighted that we have been able to showcase them in our fantastic new Darley Street market as we enter a new, exciting time for Bradford so close to where the original Kirkgate Market once stood.”