PLANS to spend £9million on redeveloping a town’s market have been scrapped by council bosses who will now apply for government funding as part of a ‘wider vision’.

The highly controversial Clitheroe Market redevelopment scheme has been at the centre of widespread debate for a number of years but has now officially been tossed-out by bosses at a meeting of the policy and finance committee.

The unanimous decision, which was made on Tuesday evening, means the council will now begin work on a new bid that they will present to government in the hope of securing a chunk of the £675million earmarked as part of the an initiative called the Future High Street Fund.

By scrapping the plans Ribble Valley council have also agreed to terminate their contract with Nelson-based Barnfield Construction, who were the chosen developers to revamp the town’s historic market.

Councillor Ken Hind, former leader of the council, was instrumental in forming a plan with Barnfield but said he was glad to see this new approach.

He said: “By applying to the government for funding we can widen the redevelopment area and spend money not only working on the market but the wider town. This approach will allow us to improve the whole of Clitheroe, not just the market.”

Councillor Hind added that he hoped all work could be completed by 2023.

Also speaking after the meeting, Councillor Terry Hill, a member of the break-away democratic conservative party, said he was optimistic.

He said: “I have been involved with the down centre for over 10 years and I now hope we can take what we have learnt from over the years and put it into practice.

“We need a comprehensive plan for the whole town and the market redevelopment has been the catalyst for this.

“This government scheme will allow us to focus on the town as a whole."

Steve Rush, of the Clitheroe Residents Action Group, said: "As I understand it, the council will have to consult with a wide range of people. Shopkeepers, market stall holders, members of the public, they should all have an input.

"Along with the termination of Barnfield Construction arrangements this is a major initiative which should include the opinions of a wide range of interested parties."