CALLS have been made for investment into a ‘forgotten’ area of Barnsley town centre to bring it up to the same level as the Glass Works and surrounding streets.
Market Street was once a bustling scene of locals on a weekday and weekend but in recent years it has slowly started to decline.
When M and S closed its doors for the final time in 2023, it left a huge hole in the Market Street shopping scene and it’s never really recovered.
National chains such as Pound Bakery have since followed in their footsteps and it is now mainly local stores and charity shops which fill the street scene.
But while that area has been in decline, the Glass Works has been thriving and Ben Hulin, who works on Market Street, believes more can be done to support businesses.
He told the Chronicle: “It’s a shame really. I completely understand there’s only so much money and the Glass Works looks lovely and it’s brought a lot more people to Barnsley.
“My nan used to take me up on Market Street when I was a kid and I remember M and S and other big name brands on this street. Ultimately now you’ve got a couple of charity shops and things like that.
“M and S is just a big empty building now and it’s been like that for as long as I can remember. It’s very unfortunate.
“People are trying to make money on this street.”
He’s hoping that investment similar to that received by huge High Street names in the Glass Works could trickle down to shops on Market Street.
He said: “There’s no investment. For example, if you gave grants to the shops on Market Street they could use that money for shutters to stop people breaking in.
“We’ve paid for our won and they’re not cheap. We’ve had our shutters damaged by youngsters climbing up on the roofs.”
Coun Robin Franklin, cabinet spokesperson for regeneration and culture, said: “Market Street is predominantly made up of privately owned properties and has shown encouraging signs of recovery over the past year, with several long-term vacant units now reoccupied. This reflects growing confidence in the area, and the important role Market Street continues to play in the town centre.
“To support further improvement, we are proposing to include Market Street within forthcoming High Street Rental Auction powers, which would help bring persistently empty properties back into use more quickly.
“The street also benefits from regular warden patrols through the Public Space Protection Order, helping to maintain a safe and welcoming environment for businesses and visitors.
“Local businesses can also continue to access a wide range of support through Enterprising Barnsley and are encouraged to take part in Town Talk meetings to stay connected with ongoing regeneration activity. Eligible businesses are also able to benefit from the Retail, Leisure and Hospitality Business Rate Relief that we offer.
“We remain committed to supporting Market Street’s continued improvement and ensuring it thrives as part of a vibrant, successful town centre.”
