The structure, which was commissioned as a corn exchange and the frontage of which is now used as an entrance to a modern shopping complex, is a Grade II listed building.

It was designed by John Clacy and Francis Hawkes in the Renaissance style, built in ashlar stone and was officially opened on 23 June 1855.

Internally, the principal room was the main hall which was formed by a series of cast iron columns supporting a glass roof.

[9][10] Following the war, it reverted to use as a roller-skating rink but, after falling into disuse in the 1950s, the main hall was demolished to make way for a modern shopping centre in June 1963.

[11] The entrance tower, now referred to as the Market Way Archway, continues to provide alternative access to the Sainsbury's store in Broad Street.