The new operator of one of London's oldest street markets is pressing ahead with plans to transform it with a new restaurant, roof terrace and central piazza.

Between the Bridges took over the management of Kingston Ancient Market, which opened around 1170, in April.

The company has now refined proposals to modernise the roughly 855-year-old market, in Kingston town centre, following public feedback.

The market is currently home to 28 permanent stalls and open every day from 10am to 5pm.

The market is currently home to 28 permanent stalls (Credit: Tilly O'Brien)

The plans include installing new market stalls and kiosks to modernise trading facilities, along with moving the existing statue away from the centre to the edge of Market Square to open up the space.

This would create a central piazza which could host farmers' markets, concerts, seasonal fairs and festivals, while a roof terrace with seating overlooking the square is also proposed.

The company wants to build a new public toilet block underneath the central piazza and introduce more waste storage facilities at the market. It also plans to revamp the Grade II* listed Market House, which has been mostly empty for the last few years, with a new restaurant or café and indoor seating.

Between the Bridges said it aims to celebrate "Kingston's heritage while creating a more welcoming, inclusive and flexible space for everyone".

It took over management of the market from Kingston First, which had been running it under a 12-month rolling agreement, on April 1 as part of owner Kingston Council's plans to revive the attraction.

The authority brought together Kingston Ancient Market, Market Square and Ancient Market House under a longer-term lease held by Between the Bridges to better support traders and boost footfall.

The company's website detailing the plans added: "Between The Bridges is a leading UK market operator, with experience managing street markets and exciting events across the capital, including the Southbank Between The Bridges market, Clapham's Venn Street Market and Winterville. The team brings a unique blend of creative and hospitality expertise alongside extensive market and site management.

"Between The Bridges' appointment marks a new operating model for Kingston Ancient Market as they will manage all activity at Kingston Ancient Market, including the street trading market and Ancient Market House.

This change looks to reinvigorate the space, support traders and local enterprise, boost the local community and cultural offering, and drive increased footfall.

"This appointment delivers on council priorities to revitalise a town centre asset, benefit local communities and local enterprise, celebrate local heritage and culture, support a fairer society, and address commitments to climate change challenges."

Between the Bridges is now consulting on its refined proposals for the market, ahead of submitting a formal planning application with the finalised scheme.