Work is underway to transform Ashton’s historic Market Square into a modern vibrant space in the heart of the town for people to shop, visit, socialise and do business. The exciting plans will see the introduction of new stalls and kiosks, high quality landscaping and trees, performance and seating areas as well as new street furniture and lighting.
The works are being phased to ensure the market remains open throughout and disruption is kept to a minimum. Ashton has one of the busiest town centres in Greater Manchester and its market – established in 1413 – has been voted Britain’s Favourite Market for the last two years in a row! However, the Market Square was beginning to look tired and dated and investment in the much loved Outdoor Market is crucial to ensure it keeps up with modern shopping habits and continues to compete with neighbouring towns as well as online retailers.
The scheme for Ashton Market has been designed to complement the town’s heritage assets in addition to the ambitious “Vision Tameside” redevelopment plans. This once in a lifetime opportunity for Tameside will not only transform the appearance of the town centre but will also see a new Tameside College campus in the town at the end of 2015. This dramatic change to the number of people working and studying in the heart of the town will provide a major boost to the market, local shops and economy and will help to attract new investment and businesses to Ashton and the wider Tameside area. The redevelopment plans aren’t just about the way the market looks as the Council’s Markets team is also developing a range of initiatives to help attract new market traders to ensure there is a greater choice of quality goods which will appeal to more shoppers.
“Both the indoor and outdoor markets offer great choice and value for money but we need to improve the area for the next generation whilst retaining its charm and appeal. Please keep supporting the market and local businesses whilst improvements are carried out.”
“It’s great news that the Council is investing in Ashton Outdoor Market. As a long standing market trader I think the town centre needs reinvigorating to bring shoppers back.”
The Council’s multi-award winning Environmental Services team are carrying out the works and are experienced in delivering major projects in a professional and respectful way paying particular attention to the environment, their neighbours and members of the community. The first official inspection of the project under the National Considerate Constructors Scheme has recently taken place and the Council received an excellent score. The inspector was particularly impressed with the appearance of the site and effective use of promotional materials including the use of real traders photographs featured on display boards.
For further details see www.tameside.gov.uk/ashton/marketsquare