The Symington Building and Market Hall to have restoration work

At a meeting of Cabinet on 6 May 2025, Harborough District Council approved contractors to carry out restoration work on the Harborough Market Hall.

Works on The Symington Building were also discussed at Cabinet, and the decision to carry out the repairs and upgrades was made as a delegated decision by officers on 15 May 2025.

The Symington Building will have upgrades to its external masonry, roof and windows. The renovations are expected to start in June and last up to 39 weeks.

The Symington Building was a former Victorian corset factory. Today it is Harborough District Council’s headquarters and is also home to Market Harborough’s library and museum, Job Centre, Citizen’s Advice, retail units and a temporary banking hub.

John Tillotson, Chairman of Market Harborough Civic Society, said: “It is great to see the council taking its custodianship seriously of a prized heritage asset. The Symington Building is Grade II listed and an important building which should be cared for and looked after.”

The Market Hall will also receive upgrades to its roof and windows as well as having a replacement lift for trader use. The building renovations are expected to start in July and last up to 12 weeks with the lift being installed in the autumn.

The Market Hall is an exciting destination for shopping in the town centre and is home to both the town’s general market and the Sunday Antiques and Collectibles Market.

Cllr Phil Knowles, Leader of Harborough District Council, said: “The council made budget provision earlier in the year for the upkeep of these important landmark features in the town. Residents will see scaffolding this summer on two of our valued assets as we look to keep them in the condition that they deserve for tenants, traders and residents.”

These projects are expected to cost a total of approximately £1.8 million.

The Symington Building in Market Harborough

Harborough Market Hall