The eight sets of gates used to secure the market are all original meaning they’re over 120 years old. Unfortunately, not only are the gates showing their age, they’re becoming more difficult to move, as the hinges have become worn.

To ensure the gates can continue to perform the function for which they were designed, each set of gates was removed and restored at our workshop in North Yorkshire.

The gates were carefully taken down using a hydraulic crane, after first being fitted with a lifting frame to spread the load across the structure and avoid damage. The gates were removed in stages, with each being temporarily replaced with roller shutters.

Once removed, each gate was cleaned back to bare metal before repairs were made using traditional techniques and methods. The gates were then be repainted using specialist paints in a colour scheme agreed by Historic England.

Whilst the gates are down, the stone work in each entrance to the market was reset and a new hinge system installed to make the opening and closing of the gates safer and easier. The entrances were closed for a short period whilst this work took place – the work was done in stages so the market remained open during the restoration.

Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Development, Cllr Barry Collins, said at the time:

“The gates at the borough market are wonderfully intricate, but over time, wear and tear has taken its toll on the wrought iron and it’s now necessary for restoration work to take place on the structures.

“Once they’re all back in place, the newly repainted and repaired gates will be a wonderful feature of the Borough Market, complementing the range of improvements scheduled to take place at this, and other markets in Calderdale.”