Green light for plans to revamp Ashton’s Market Square

Plans to reinvigorate Ashton’s Market Square have been given the green light this week by the Local Planning Authority.

Tameside Council and project team have been engaging with residents, market traders and stakeholders for more than a year through a number of engagement workshops and events in order to shape the plans which are being funded by Levelling Up monies awarded by Government in October 2019. The granted planning permission meets a critical milestone to enable the Market Square scheme to be completed by March 2025.

The impressive new canopy will provide a designated undercover area for markets to include flexible, durable market stalls and kiosks with seating and open up the space for events and activities. The plans include additional green spaces, trees and planting as well as new street furniture and informal play spaces.

The canopy and kiosks will frame views of the listed Town Hall and Market Hall buildings and improve walking routes through to the square in all directions. The plans have been designed to deter anti-social behaviour with clear sight lines and improved lighting and CCTV in the square.

Feedback throughout the process highlighted a view that an improved market offer was felt to be a priority to many residents and visitors.

The exciting new plans will provide a high quality flexible and modern market square which would lend itself to a range of different uses around food and drink, culture and entertainment and be more inviting to the local community and visitors. Public realm improvements on Fletcher Square, Bow Street, Warrington Street, Market Street, Market Avenue and Wellington Road will also improve the surrounding areas.

Councillor Vimal Choksi, Executive Member (Towns and Communities) said: “The plans for the Market Square will help unlock the potential regeneration of the town centre and work will start on the square early next year.”

“We have listened and responded to residents and businesses feedback and will continue to engage with local traders and businesses as we move forward with the exciting plans and bringing in high quality public realm will create a better space for events and help to bring in more visitors to the town centre.”

For more information on the plans go to www.levellingupashton.co.uk