£4 Million Buttermarket Renovation in Redruth to Open in September

The long-awaited transformation of Redruth’s historic Buttermarket is set to come to fruition on September 20th, with the unveiling of a new artisan food and shopping hub. The £4 million project, spearheaded by Redruth Revival, a not-for-profit Community Interest Company, promises to revitalise the town centre, offering a blend of dining, retail, and community spaces.

A Historic Marketplace Reimagined

Originally built in 1825, the Buttermarket was once the largest marketplace in Cornwall, primarily serving as a meat market for local butchers. The building’s upper floor was a popular meeting space, a feature that has inspired the current restoration. Now, after years of planning and renovation, this Grade II listed property is ready to begin a new chapter in Redruth’s history.

The restoration has been made possible through significant funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Architectural Heritage Fund, Historic England, and Cornwall Council via the High Street Heritage Action Zone programme. The renovated marketplace will feature a collection of street food-style businesses within a shared dining hall, retail spaces, and a large courtyard designed to host various events.

What to Expect at The Buttermarket

Jonathan Bray, General Manager of The Buttermarket Redruth, expressed his excitement as the project nears completion: “As we reach the home straight, it’s exciting to see the space start to come alive, and we cannot wait to welcome guests through our freshly painted doors in September.”

Among the businesses confirmed to take up residence are Bango Kitchen in the food hall, Saint Piran Cycling in the new ‘Mining Exchange’ retail establishment, and community-led digital station Redruth Radio, which will establish its new headquarters at the market.

The Buttermarket’s grand opening coincides with the eve of Redruth’s Pasty and Mining Festival. The festivities will kick off with lunch and dinner services, followed by a ticketed ‘Diaspora Disco’ event in the evening. Additionally, several musical events are planned throughout the opening month, including performances by Cornish Celtic dance music group Skillywidden and the world music-infused ‘Diaspora Disco.’ Buskers and pop-up markets will also animate the courtyard during weekend daytimes.

A New Era for Redruth

Vicki Kent, Heritage Development Trust Project Manager at Redruth Revival, highlighted the broader goals of the project: “Redruth Revival’s goal is to contribute to the development of a strong, sustainable, and socially inclusive economy in Redruth that will benefit our communities and our businesses. The Buttermarket is the first property we have refurbished, and the hope is its success will generate profit which in turn can be used to save and re-purpose another of our town’s historic buildings.”

Stuart McLeod, Director of England – London & South at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, echoed this sentiment, emphasising the importance of investing in heritage to support local communities. “This project is for the people of Redruth, organised by those dedicated to the town and giving it a new lease of life,” he said. “We can’t wait to re-establish the Buttermarket as the jewel in the crown of Redruth.”

Access and Opening Details

The Buttermarket Redruth can be accessed via several points, including a new entrance lobby on Alma Place, a public walkway through the site on Station Hill, the Fair Meadow car park, and Market Way off Fore Street. While the site remains closed to the public as the final touches are completed, it will soon be bustling with activity.

The official opening is scheduled for September 20th, but there is a possibility that the site will open earlier that week, with first looks appearing on the market’s social media feeds.

As the opening day approaches, the community is eagerly anticipating the return of this historic site, reimagined for a modern audience. With a diverse range of events and businesses lined up, the Buttermarket is poised to become a vibrant focal point in Redruth’s town centre once again.