Ashton Market Square transformation set to begin

Work on the transformation of Ashton Market Square is set to commence this summer, bringing changes to the town centre.

Initial groundworks will start in the coming weeks, with the Council committed to ensuring that the outdoor market continues to operate in the town centre during construction.

The indoor market will remain open as normal throughout the works, and the outdoor market will operate on Tuesdays and Saturdays in Fletcher Square, with the Sunday Tabletop Market relocating to Old Cross Street Car Park. However, the major construction work involved will mean that access around the town centre will change as works progress and things may need to move about.

In preparation for the construction, contractors for the project have been brought on board by the council. Whitecrate will manufacture the new kiosks, The Casey Group will construct the canopy and public space beneath it, and the Council’s Engineering team will continue the improvements on from the Wellington Road scheme to complete the public realm enhancements in the Market Square.

The comprehensive redevelopment will transform Market Square into a vibrant, multi-use space. Key design features include high-quality seating, attractive planting, new paving, enhanced lighting, CCTV for safety, and a large canopy to create a versatile civic space for markets, cultural events, and performances. The first stage of activity will be to ensure that the electricity diversions and new supplies are in place and the Council’s engineering team are on site carrying out this initial work.

The new kiosks are under construction and will feature a variety of food and drink options, encouraging visitors to enjoy the square throughout the day and into the evening. The square will also include new green spaces and ample lighting, providing areas for people to spend time with family and friends and encourage new visitors to the town.

To support market traders, a temporary market will be established in Fletcher Square and Market Street, incorporating some of the existing kiosks and flexible market infrastructure. Preparations are underway for the installation of the services like electricity and water for the temporary market which is expected to be operational from the end of August 2024 for 12 months and people are encouraged to continue to support the amazing local traders and businesses in Ashton.

Cllr Vimal Choksi Executive Member – Towns Centre and Communities said:  “It will be fantastic to see work starting on site on this exciting transformation, but we are aware that it will cause some disruption, we will be doing everything possible to minimise the impact for visitors, shoppers, and traders while work takes place. We really want to support our local retailers and market traders and to encourage everyone to shop as usual. Ashton will remain open for business and there will be events and activities to bring in more footfall like Saturdays on the Square which has free parking at Union Street Car Park and it is vital we continue to use the town centre as usual and keep shopping local to support our businesses community.”

The construction may cause some disruption, but the Councill will be working closely with contractors and local businesses to minimise this as much as possible. Further updates on progress will be provided in the coming weeks.

For more information on the plans for the square, the Town Hall restoration, and remediation work on the former Interchange site in the Town centre, please visit www.tameside.gov.uk/ashtontowncentre.