A TRENDY food hall inspired by the renowned Borough Market in London is destined for Middlesbrough as part of a major revamp of a derelict town centre street.

Following the success of transforming Baker Street into an eclectic mix of independent retailers, based on Brick Lane in the Capital and the vibrant Williamsburg district of New York, Bedford Street around the corner is poised for a similar make-over.

Middlesbrough Council is aiming to attract more visitors to the town by creating a unique monthly food market which will showcase the region’s high quality produce and street food.

A report which will be presented to its executive meeting on Tuesday, said: “The long-term ambition is to establish a permanent indoor high quality food market creating a town centre attraction for visitors to explore and discover and savour a unique atmosphere."

With only two firms currently open on Bedford Street, off Linthorpe Road, developer Jomast has bought the remaining empty terraces and secured planning permission to turn them into flats above ground floor shops.

Middlesbrough Council has earmarked £250,000 of capital funding for improvements and will help attract retailers who will be exempt from paying business rates.

On Baker Street,17 properties have been brought back to use and 12 new businesses have opened including The Twisted Lip and Sherlocks micro breweries, Chilli Cake Deli and Baker Street Kitchen cafes and three hair salons as well as vintage clothing stores.