The work is one aspect of an overall project to refurbish the historic attraction’s roof for the benefit of traders and millions of shoppers in future.
The overall project, which started in January, is still on schedule to be finished in early September. New glazing has already been installed on the market’s east and west roofs, while work to refurbish the barrel and south roofs is on-going. Essential repairs to the market’s flat roof and roof light lanterns are also being carried out.
Swansea Council appointed specialist contractor R & M Williams to undertake the works. The project is being funded by Swansea Council and the Building Enhancement Programme, which is supported by the European Regional Development Fund through the Welsh Government.
“Swansea Market is one of our crown jewels and it’s vital we preserve it so the attraction’s at the heart of a regenerated, vibrant, mixed-use city centre in years to come. When we spoke with traders last year to ask them what improvement works they’d like to see the most, the refurbishment of the market roof was pinpointed as a top priority because it was starting to show signs of wear and tear. Although this work is now nearing completion, we hope, subject to funding, that other improvement works will take place in future to further boost the market’s look and feel.”“We’ve worked hard alongside R & M Williams to minimise disruption during this major refurbishment project, with access into and around the market hall being maintained at all times. This will continue to be the case until the work has finished in September. “
A giant crane and teams of abseilers have been used during the project so far to help lower and install panes of glass into place. Lorries measuring about 100-foot long have also arrived on site in recent months to deliver roof cladding and other materials.
Have a look at www.swanseaindoormarket.co.uk for more information about the market.