Oxford City Council is inviting residents, visitors and businesses to view and comment on the latest proposals for its £8 million programme of essential improvements to Oxford's Covered Market.
Oxford City Council is holding a public drop-in session in the market on Thursday 11 June.
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A public drop-in session will take place on Thursday 11 June between 4pm and 7pm in the market next to Hamblin Bread and Sushi Bowl, giving people the opportunity to view the latest proposals and speak to the project team
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The proposals will then go on display in Oxford Town Hall from Friday 12 June to Tuesday 16 June, with options to leave feedback on the designs via a handwritten form or submit online
The Covered Market has been at the heart of Oxford for more than 250 years. The programme of essential improvements is designed to ensure the historic building is fit for the 21st century and can continue serving traders, residents and visitors for generations to come.
The proposals focus on practical improvements to ageing infrastructure and facilities, alongside enhancements to public spaces and accessibility. The aim is to support the market's long-term future while respecting the character and heritage that make it such an important part of Oxford.
Improvements include:
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creation of a new open court and seating area
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relocation and upgrading of public toilets, including increased female provision
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upgrades to utilities and services within the historic structure
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improved lighting, entrances and routes through the market
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replacement and relocation of the sub-station to meet the future energy needs of the market
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additional retail space within the updated layout
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improved Wi-Fi
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improvements to Market Street to create a more welcoming pedestrian approach
Protecting the character of the market
The Covered Market is a protected historic building, and heritage considerations continue to shape the design approach as plans develop.
Many of the proposed improvements relate to behind-the-scenes infrastructure that is reaching the end of its serviceable life, including wiring, drainage, utilities and public facilities. Including decluttering and removal of old utilities to improve the market’s appearance and make it easier to maintain.
Where changes are more visible, the intention is for them to sit comfortably within the existing character and day-to-day life of the market.
What happens next
The programme will continue through detailed design, technical assessments and ongoing engagement during 2026.
Construction is currently anticipated from mid 2027, subject to planning approval and detailed delivery planning.
The market will remain open and trading throughout the works.
Comment
“The Covered Market is incredibly loved by people across Oxford, and beyond, and that’s been very clear in recent conversations and feedback. This programme is focused on the practical improvements needed to support the market long term, while respecting the character and atmosphere that people value so highly.
“We are not going to change what makes the Covered Market special, but we want to make sure this historic building can continue to thrive for generations to come.”
Councillor Susan Brown, Leader of Oxford City Council and Cabinet Member for Partnership Working, Inclusive Economic Growth and Culture
