Plans to redevelop Bacup Market and Union Street has been given the green light by Rossendale Borough Council.
The new market, which will be called Temple Court, will include the construction of a state-of-the-art two-storey Market Hall offering local produce, crafts, food and drink on the ground floor and a cycle hub and makers’ spaces on the upper floor.
The vision, created by retail development experts Market Curators, and developed and finalised by architects the Frank Whittle Partnership, aims to offer a broader provision of food and drink options and seating within a food hall.
Heritage experts have also been appointed to ensure that the carbon friendly facility fuses with Bacup’s historic street scene.
The cycle hub hopes to provide a retail offer as well as a bicycle repairs and hire service enabling people to discover the Rossendale Valley on two wheels.
The hub will be in close proximity to Lee Quarry – a five mile mountain bike trail – and the Valley of Stone Cycleway.
The Market Hall will be built on the site of the former Barclays Bank, which backs onto the open market in the heart of the town centre and is expected to be completed by Spring 2026.
The outdoor market will be home to traditional stalls selling a variety of fresh food, creative works and household wares.
As part of the redevelopment, Union Street, which runs adjacent to the market, will be made one way, and footpaths widened to give priority to pedestrians over vehicles and provide an opportunity for businesses to spill onto the pavements.
Funding for the scheme has successfully been secured by Rossendale Borough Council through the Capital Regeneration Project, supported by Levelling Up.
Rossendale Borough Council leader, Cllr Alyson Barnes, said: “The rejuvenation of the market area presents another opportunity to improve Bacup town centre and will address challenges faced by lots of markets around the country.
“In recent years we have seen declining footfall and trader numbers. We believe this investment will foster community development and address market traders’ economic difficulties.
“The current market is an important asset to the town centre but at present it struggles to extend its appeal beyond a small, loyal customer base. Temple Court will appeal to a much wider area with its food and drink offer and the cycle hub.
“The concept designs will allow us to approach dynamic and experienced organisations to play a pivotal role in establishing the new market. We look forward to engaging with potential partners in the coming months.”
Public engagement sessions are now to be held at Bacup Library on Monday, February 26, 10am to 1pm, and Wednesday, February 28, 4pm to 6.45pm when the plans and images of the proposals will be on show.
Comments will also be sought from members of Bacup 2040 Partnership Board, Market Traders, the Bacup Business Association, other market operators and various community groups.
The plans will also feature on the Council’s website www.rossendale.gov.uk throughout the month of February, where members of the public can submit their comments to economicdevelopment@rossendalebc.gov.uk
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