A PLAN to redevelop Clitheroe’s market has moved a step closer.

The multi-million pound scheme for the 900-year-old market is set to be awarded to Nelson company Barnfield Construction.

MORE TOP STORIES:

The project, which was first announced in October 2013, could see the 1.4-acre site in the centre of the Ribble Valley town transformed into a hotel, restaurant, cafe, shops, car park and revamped market, with a hall, cabins and stalls.

Ribble Valley Borough Council’s policy and finance committee has agreed its intention to award the contract to redevelop the site to the Pendle firm.

Barnfield Construction, which has worked on projects including the Globe Centre, Accrington; the Ace Centre, Nelson; Boundary Mill, Colne; Stanley House, Mellor; and Blackfriars, Manchester, was chosen from a shortlist of developers following an extensive selection process.

Cllr Stuart Hirst, council leader, said: “The Clitheroe Market scheme generated strong interest from first-rate developers across the country and we received some stunning proposals for the site.

“This is a fantastic opportunity to bring modern retail and leisure facilities to Clitheroe town centre and we are delighted to welcome Barnfield Construction, which has a strong track record in schemes of this nature, as our development partner.”

In line with European procurement requirements, there will now be a 10-day standstill period, before the contract is confirmed.

The council has said that detailed plans for the scheme will be unveiled in the coming months and subject to planning approval, the first phase, involving the construction of the new market, is scheduled to be completed by February 2017.

Phase two, which involves the remainder of the site, is scheduled to be completed by April 2018.

The council has added that an “extensive consultation” with market traders and stakeholders will take place next year.

The firm was given a six-month exclusive option on the project in 2013 to draw up plans before others were invited to bid.

The market dates from the Norman conquest in the 12th century.

Cllr Ian Brown, of Lancashire County Council, Ribble Valley Council and Clitheroe Town Council, said: “ This is clearly a great opportunity as we have been looking to redevelop the site for 30 years.”