Long-running leaks and drainage problems at one of north Devon’s best-known market buildings are set to be tackled after councillors approved a major repair scheme for Bideford Pannier Market.
Members of Torridge District Council’s planning committee backed proposals for replacement roofing, drainage repairs and associated works at the Grade II-listed market building during a meeting on Thursday, May 14.
Planning officer Miss Jess Wellington told councillors the work aimed to “improve the condition of the building and resolve issues such as water ingress”.
The scheme includes repairs to slate roofing, brickwork and timber beams, alongside alterations to gutters and rainwater pipes to improve water runoff. New ventilation elements, lead flashings and a roof-level safety restraint system will also be installed.
An updated section of roofing above Butchers Row will use insulated dark grey GRP roofing material to tackle persistent leaking problems affecting retail units below. Torridge District Council’s conservation officer supported the amendment, describing leaks in the area as “an ongoing issue”.
The council report stated the work would result in “less than substantial harm” to the historic fabric of the building, but concluded the improvements were needed to keep the market weatherproof for traders and visitors.
Miss Wellington told the committee the market’s roof structure was “quite complex”, with varying roof heights requiring extensive repair and maintenance work.
The report added that the majority of the work would take place at roof level and would have minimal impact on the appearance of the historic building and surrounding conservation area.
During the debate, Cllr Peter Hames questioned why the project did not include additional solar panels.
Cllr Hames said: “This work is very important to go through. I am a bit dismayed really that Bideford Town Council has not taken an opportunity to add to the solar array on the roof.
“The plans show there is provision for two more solar arrays and this would, I would have thought, been an ideal opportunity.”
Cllr Chris Leather suggested an advisory note could be added encouraging further solar panels.
Planning permission was formally granted on Friday, May 15. An advisory note attached to the approval said the local planning authority “would encourage the installation of additional solar panels on the building”, although separate planning and listed building consent would be required.
The approved plans also require ecological mitigation measures to protect wildlife and nesting birds during the works.
