The city council are expected to reach a decision on the application by January 31, and if the planning application is given the green light, the trustees of the Milk Market hope the site will be transformed and re-opened for business by next September.

Under the new plans, the market will operate for six days a week and could also be used as a performance space, according to Market Trustees chairman David O'Mahony.

A 120-seat restaurant, stretching from the first floor of the nearby Market House, will overlook the market.

Six permanent units near Market House will provide anchors for other stallholders and traders and the market itself will be weatherproofed to make it sustainable and attractive to farmers, traders and visitors alike.

Mr O'Mahony said the market trustee board, which includes a number of city councillors, will fund the majority of the project, adding that the new restaurant will provide the "financial foundation" for the revitalised Milk Market and expects it will open each morning and evening.

The multi-million contract to rejuvenate the Milk Market was contracted to the award winning architects Michael Healy & Partners this May.

Architect Michael Healy has described the plans as "dynamic" and said it will create a much greater atmosphere in that area. Those who wish to object to the planning application can do so after January 2.