The council first committed itself to the improvement of the Butcher's and General Markets in 2013, following a decrease in occupancy in Wrexham markets from 90% in 2007 to 70% in 2013. In March 2014 a planning application was submitted for the potential refurbishment of the interior and exterior of the building, including removing vegetation, cleaning masonry, de-cluttering the façade, and redecorating the shop fronts with new signage. In April 2014, a wider plan for Wrexham's three markets was considered, with the General Market to be focussed on bars and restaurants in order to stimulate the night-time economy; the plan would have cost £729,000.
