THE late 1960s Queensgate indoor market in Huddersfield should become a protected building, says an expert.
Prof Neil Jackson, an architectural engineering professor at Leeds University, delivered his opinion after being commissioned by Kirklees Council.
He said he knew he was seeing something special when he visited the market for the first time last month.
"I am in absolutely no doubt that the Queensgate Market at Huddersfield should be listed," said Prof Jackson.
He said the building reflected "the self-assurance and spirit of its age".
He concludes: "The Queensgate Market is an exceptional building."
The market hall is under threat in plans by the council for a major redevelopment of the town centre.
Supporters trying to save the building from demolition today welcomed the professor's judgement.
The Government is considering whether to list both the market and nearby library and art gallery.
Chris Marsden, of campaign group Huddersfield Gem, said: "This report endorses everything we have said about the building."
