Storm Babet rainfall causes ‘delay’ to Cornhill Market revamp

Rainfall from Storm Babet^[1] has slightly delayed the rejuvenation of Cornhill Market, the city council says. There has been a small setback to the paving works in Lincoln’s^[2] City Square caused by the heavy storm, which forced many residents across the county to evacuate their homes^[3].

The former central market has been undergoing extensive refurbishment since summer 2022, with an estimated completion date of autumn 2023. Kate Ellis, the director of major developments at City of Lincoln Council, said: “External to the building, the rain has had more of an effect and created a small delay to the paving works on City Square.

“Weather-dependent, we expect the handover of these works to take place later in November.” Despite the external disruption, the rainfall has had no adverse effect on the market’s internal works.

Are you planning a bonfire and/or fireworks display event? Let us know.^[4]

Once the transfer is complete, stallholders will be able to order equipment and supplies and get ready for trading before the market’s full reopening. The official opening date remains unconfirmed but previews are open for shoppers.

Ms Ellis added: “We are incredibly excited by the work that’s been undertaken over the past year in order to completely transform the building and surrounding areas.” The wet weather in July had previously delayed the Cornhill Market’s reopening as staff awaited the completion of the City Square segment.

At that time, council leaders were optimistic about a pre-Christmas launch. Turtle Bay, a Caribbean-themed chain restaurant part of the project, welcomed its first patrons in September.

The £7m project has been funded by the Towns Fund Deal.

References

1. ^{^} Storm Babet (www.lincolnshirelive.co.uk)
2. ^{^} Lincoln’s (www.lincolnshirelive.co.uk)
3. ^{^} evacuate their homes (www.lincolnshirelive.co.uk)
4. ^{^} Are you planning a bonfire and/or fireworks display event? Let us know. (xd.wayin.com)