Plans have been submitted to redevelop an “underutilised” area in and around Gloucester’s Eastgate Shopping Centre, with proposals for a new food hall and revitalised market space. Gloucester City Council has applied to its planning department for permission to convert vacant retail units in the southern section of the shopping centre as well as the adjacent pavilion and former bowling green, described in the application documents as “vacant and underutilised for a prolonged period, falling into a poor state of repair”.
The application seeks a change of use and internal reconfiguration of part of the ground floor of Eastgate Shopping Centre to facilitate the relocation of Gloucester Market and create a modern food hall. External alterations are also proposed, including new pedestrian access points, replacement glazing, refurbishment of the Pavilion, public realm enhancements and landscaping work, as well as alterations to Addison’s Folly and associated infrastructure, access, servicing, and ancillary works.
In June, it was disclosed that the new indoor market could open by spring 2027 as part of the council’s broader Greyfriars project, which also intends to establish a vibrant arts and performance venue capable of seating 450 people or accommodating 600 standing guests.
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Detailed planning documents and CGI images now provide further insight into how the redevelopment might appear once completed. The design statement highlights that “Greyfriars Quarter currently represents an underutilised part of Gloucester city centre, characterised by a declining Market Hall, limited commercial activity, and issues associated with anti-social behaviour.”
It notes that the adjacent Eastgate Shopping Centre, which offers retail, food and beverage outlets, car parking and service access, occupies a key central location, connecting the Museum of Gloucester with important heritage assets such as St Mary de Crypt Church. The existing Market Hall presents a significant opportunity for refurbishment and repurposing as a flexible, multi-functional arts and cultural venue.
Furthermore, unoccupied retail space in Eastgate Shopping Centre, directly beside Greyfriars Green, offers the chance to relocate the market and introduce a modern market and food hall experience, aimed at drawing residents and visitors and revitalising this portion of the town centre.
Most works involve internal alterations and refurbishment of existing buildings; however, a new coffee kiosk is proposed within the pavilion of the former bowling green. The footprint of buildings is expected to remain largely unchanged.
Enhancements will include new and altered pedestrian entrances, improvements to the centre’s frontage, landscaping around Greyfriars Green, minor works to Addison’s Folly and the pavilion, and the installation of anti-climb fencing on the roof of Eastgate Shopping Centre.
According to the plans: “The renewed frontage of Eastgate Shopping Centre, including the relocation of the market and food hall, will encourage greater use of Greyfriars Green, which should also support the building’s continued use and long-term conservation.”
Under the broader Greyfriars scheme, Addison’s Folly will be stripped out and partially refurbished. The council plans to collaborate with Historic England and English Heritage to enhance the external appearance and setting of Greyfriars House and Monument.
While the determination deadline for the food hall application is set for Wednesday, 21 October, no decision has yet been made.