A COUNCIL has come under fire after it was claimed market benches were to be replaced with deckchairs.

Amazing Accrington posted on its Facebook page that 70 deckchairs – produced by local business North Lancs Training Group – were going to be used at forthcoming events on the town square.

The news came just a week after six benches were removed from Accrington Market.

Cllr Sara Britcliffe, who represents the St Andrews ward, hit out saying deckchairs were not what the square needs.

But Hyndburn Council said there was a 'varied seating plan' for the market.

Cllr Britcliffe said: "The benches in the middle of the market hall were removed and there was an uproar on social media about it.

"Apparently these benches are to be replaced by deckchairs. This is apparently to utilise the space for further projects in the market hall and create more income as according to the budget figures the market is making £110,000 loss compared to its annual budget.

"I am concerned about the replacement of benches with deckchairs as when I have visited the market hall there have been quite a few elderly of our elderly residents use this as a resting spot between shopping and as a meeting point, I do not think the deckchairs are adequate seating particularly for our older residents."

Cllr Miles Parkinson, leader of Hyndburn Council, said: “I want to reassure visitors to the market hall that the provision of varied seating is planned for the market.

"We’ve had a lot of interest for a site in the centre of the Market Hall and the benches were removed to remodel the space ready for future use.

"We know the Market Hall is a place where people go to shop in a friendly environment with personal service. Sitting down with their shopping and having a chat over a lunch time drink or meal in one of the many cafes is all part of that."

Murray Dawson, chairman of Amazing Accrington, said: “North Lancs Training group have committed to manufacturing 70 deckchairs.

"These will be predominantly for use at Amazing Accrington events and, in addition, will be shared with community partners who might want to use them for town events."

Gareth Lindsay, managing director of North Lancs Training Group said: “It’s our pleasure to get involved with Amazing Accrington and support the events.

"This was a great idea, put forward by Murray, and I’m sure will make a great addition through the year."