A HEREFORD businessman has bought Brecon’s historic Market Hall and says he wants to make it successful for the benefit of the Welsh town.

Powys County Council said after of expressions of interest, it decided the best option would be to sell the Grade II listed building to Sockett Properties, a Hereford-based firm which owns the city's Butter Market.

Coucnil chiefs thought if the building was sold it would "ultimately improve the management" and mean it can reach its "full economic potential for the benefit of market traders, residents and the wider community".

Councillor Phyl Davies, Cabinet Member for Property, said: “The Market Hall is an important building in Brecon and its future use is of great importance to market traders and residents. It was difficult for the county council to invest in its future and it was agreed that selling it would protect its future use.

“The market hall is an important asset and we are delighted that a suitable purchaser with a proven track record has been found to invest and enhance the building. Discussion started sometime ago but have been delayed by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We are pleased that a sale has been completed which will see much needed investment in the building and secure an important asset for the town.”

The new owner Darren Sockett said: “I look forward to continue working with existing traders to make the building a successful retail and community offering for the benefit of the town.”

The market hall was first built around 1840 and was extended in 1845. The rear of the market hall was then built in 1897, according to Cadw which is the historic environment service of the Welsh Government.