New beginnings for market

Cllr Marlene Haworth was in Accrington’s historic market today to see the last of the old market stalls go to be replaced by new ones.This represents the beginning of the final stage of refurbishment in this exciting project.

In addition the Council and the ‘No Limits’ programme have transformed the upper part of the market hall to provide a facility for a vibrant 21st Century business and retail hub. 

Cllr Marlene Haworth at Accrington Market and taking the hammer to the last stall

Cllr Haworth said,“This is an historic day in the life of the market, and is a real turning point for its future. The last market stall has now gone, but throughout the whole project we have taken great pains to keep the original features, whilst bringing the market bang up to date for modern day shopping.

We are now looking forward to the relaunch of the new look market at a ceremony on the morning of 26th June 2010 when the contractors hand back the new stalls and balcony units to the Council.

Cllr Haworth continued,Visitors will be able to see the whole makeover of the market including the galleries, which were once used as reading rooms, and have been transformed into shops housing a variety of small retail and other businesses. Hyndburn EnterpriseTrust will also move in from Accrington’s Globe Centre and will continue to provide a range of business support services for new and established traders including book keeping, mentoring, and marketing right at the heart of town”.