Accrington's £70m transformation now 'all systems go'

Hyndburn Council's levelling up boss Cllr Mohammed Younis said this represented a big step forward and meant the ambitious project was now 'all systems go'.

Following a public consultation earlier this autumn, the planning and listed building applications required to redevelop Burtons Chambers, the Market Hall, and Market Chambers have now been lodged with council officials.

Another application to site 23 temporary market cabinets for decanted traders from the heritage listed market hall has also been submitted.

An artist's impression of inside the market hall

The lodged documents include a planning statement for each of the applications providing a summary of the proposals, including the feedback received from the consultation, and how it has been considered by the project team.

The news follows the appointment of Morgan Sindall Construction by Hyndburn Council to mastermind the early work on the scheme to deliver the January 2022 £70m Accrington Town Centre Investment Plan.

The project is financed by £20m of government cash from its Levelling Up fund and a further £3m from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and Lancashire County Council, with further investment forecast from the council and private investors.

A lengthy public consultation was held on the plans

Cllr Younis said: "This is a big step forward for the refurbishment of these historic buildings.

"This is a real progress and its is now all systems go for this project.

"We still want to hear from residents and traders about their ideas and suggestions to fine tune the scheme as it goes forward."

The Grade II heritage-listed Victorian Market Hall will be refurbished and transformed into a vibrant food and drink destination.

How the town centre could look

Burtons Chambers will be restored to become a modern co-working and events space for individuals and businesses.

Market Chambers will be refurbished and repaired to become a cultural, arts and heritage venue.

In advance of the launch of Accrington Town Square Markets in January 2024, preparations for the delivery of the bespok cabins is set to begin.

Throughout December 23 high-end custom units will be installed in front of Accrington’s Market Hall and Town Hall.

Market traders will be re-located whilst the £11m works inside the Market Hall commence with plans on track for full re-opening in April 2025.

The search for an experienced operator to take the reins after the building works are completed is underway and will be concluded by January.

Sameena King, Accrington Market Hall Manager, said: “It is such an exciting time and not only are we now looking forward to the Market Hall’s wider transformation, the market traders are really looking forward to their temporary Market on the Square.

“A small number of our existing businesses have made the decision to close when the works begin, and we wish them all the best for the future.

“I am very pleased to share that not only will there be more than 20 Accrington Market businesses available for shopping with on the Square and beyond."

Accrington Market Hall will open until December 31 however access across the square may be impacted at times due to the cabins being erected.