An iconic Sidmouth building has been brought back into the care of the town, prompting an invitation for ideas on how it can be used by the community.
Sidmouth Town Council has announced a ‘new chapter’ for the historic Market Place building, in the centre, after it struck a deal with the district council to take over its daily running.
The town council said it is currently carrying out essential repairs to the building and is inviting suggestions how the site can be used now, this summer, and in the future.
Ideas put forward by the town could include community or exhibition space, exhibition space, markets, cultural attraction or a combination of uses to benefit Sidmouth.
The town authority has launched a consultation, welcoming ideas from now until July 3.
Local traders, artists, pop-up retailers, food vendors and community organisations are urged to consider using the space.
The authority said it was ‘spearheading the revitalisation’ of the building in the heart of the town and was ‘eager’ to see the market place being used and adding to the town’s vibe.
It said flexible arrangements would be available to use the building in a bid to make it accessible for a host of different uses.
A town council spokesman said: “Sidmouth Town Council has taken on responsibility for running the building from East Devon District Council marking an exciting opportunity for the community to help shape the future of a much-loved local landmark.
“The town council is already undertaking essential repairs and maintenance to ensure the building is preserved and brought back into active use.
“As work progresses, the council is inviting residents, community groups and local businesses to come forward and share their ideas for how the building could be used in both the short and long term.”
Sidmouth Market Place has been brought back under the care of the town and ideas are being welcomed on how the space can be used.
Photo: Sidmouth Town Council.
The council said flexible arrangements to use the building were available, with opportunities to use site as a whole or to share the space with other occupiers.
The aim is to make it accessible to a wide range of businesses and organisations.
The town council spokesman said: “The council hopes that by engaging with residents and businesses now, it can develop a long-term vision that secures a sustainable and vibrant future for the building while making the most of its potential in the months ahead.”
He added: “Councillors are keen to hear suggestions about what role the market place building could play in the future, whether as a community space, exhibition space, venue for local produce and markets, cultural attraction to name a few or a combination of uses that reflect the needs and aspirations of the town.
“In the meantime, the council is eager to see the building occupied and contributing to the vibrancy of the town centre throughout the busy summer season.
“Local traders, artists, pop-up retailers, food vendors and community organisations are being encouraged to express an interest in using the space.”
To submit ideas for the future of the Market Place building, or enquire about occupying the space this summer, contact Sidmouth Town Council by July 3, 2026, by emailing: projects@sidmouth.gov.uk or see the survey here.
