A £150,000 revamp of Dudley town centre's market area, hailed as a 'boost for business' by council leaders, has been branded a 'failed' project after being overrun by pigeons and antisocial behaviour. The investment, funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and administered by the West Midlands Combined Authority, was completed in April 2025 with the aim of creating a central hub for visitors.
Revamp Intended as Gathering Point
The project saw traditional market stalls replaced with seating and glass screens, designed to serve as an eating area and events space. Dudley Council's deputy leader, Councillor Paul Bradley, had expressed hopes that the area would become a 'central hub and gathering point for visitors', stimulating local commerce and community engagement.
Traders and Residents Express Outrage
However, traders and local residents have voiced their anger as the area has become infested with pigeons and is frequently used by individuals drinking alcohol and causing a nuisance. The situation has led to widespread complaints about hygiene and safety, with many describing the area as 'disgusting' and a 'waste of council spending'.
Councillor Shaukat Ali, representing St Thomas's ward, stated: 'I am absolutely gobsmacked by the state of the market. Traders are not very happy, the toilets are closed, there are pigeon droppings everywhere and there is antisocial behaviour; people have had enough.' He was alerted to the issues by constituent Jayne Beard, who questioned whether anyone would want to eat lunch in such conditions.
Pigeons Outnumber People
Councillor Ali added: 'The tables are being used more by pigeons than people. It's unhygienic, completely uninviting, and does real damage to the reputation of our town. It certainly does nothing to help our town and hardworking traders who are trying to earn a living.' He criticised the revamp as part of a 'long line of Conservative failures' and called for urgent action to address antisocial behaviour, clean up the area, and collaborate with traders and residents to revitalise Dudley Market.
Social Media Backlash
On social media, Dudley residents have echoed these concerns. Deirdre Haddock commented: 'When they announced what they were going to do with the market we knew then it was a total waste of money. The only thing that uses the seating and table are the ruddy pigeons. Who wants to sit among pigeon poo and have their lunch. Another fine mess from Dudley Council and an utter disgrace.'
Adele Groves noted: 'I used to like sitting at those tables in the warmer weather to eat my lunch before work. It would be nice if the council cleaned them but not holding my breath.' The council has been approached for comment on the ongoing situation.
