Planning permission for Rawtenstall Market approved.
Planning permission has been granted for the long-awaited redevelopment of Rawtenstall Market, a key project in the Rawtenstall Masterplan.
The approved plans form an integral part of the Council's continued efforts to regenerate town centres and markets across the borough and are designed to build on the popularity of the shopping and food destination.
The refurbishment of Rawtenstall Market aims to create a more appealing, functional, and welcoming environment for businesses, shoppers, and visitors.
This significant upgrade will allow the Council to address several challenges currently faced by the market, including the need to improve the building’s overall structure. The changes will ensure a safer, warmer, and more inviting space for everyone who uses it.
Among the key features of the approved redevelopment are:
- Relocation of the market entrance to face Bank Street directly, to provide a stronger connection to the town’s main retail thoroughfare.
- Creation of a flexible, multi-purpose space that can adapt to the changing needs of traders and visitors for an all year round events and activities
- Upgraded public toilets to provide more user friendly spaces
- Use of York stone for flooring and other key elements, creating a seamless connection between the market and Bank Street, enhancing the market’s integration into the town centre.
The refurbishment of Rawtenstall Market is a major milestone in the Council’s wider Masterplan, which focuses on regenerating the town centre and will also address long-standing traffic and infrastructure challenges in the town.
The project will deliver much-needed improvements to the fabric of the building and the outdoor cabins, preventing further deterioration, improving both its aesthetic appeal and functionality.
Alyson Barnes, Leader of Rossendale Borough Council, said: “We are delighted to have received planning permission to move forward with the redevelopment of Rawtenstall Market.
“This is a key part of our Masterplan for the town centre, adding value to on-going improvements in the town centre. We are confident that these changes will make the market a more vibrant, attractive, and fit-for-purpose destination for traders and shoppers alike for the long term. We would also like to thank the design team at DAY Architectural for their professional input and contributions to the project designs to date, which have played a key role in progressing our plans efficiently and effectively.
“This project demonstrates our ongoing commitment to breathing new life into our town centres and markets across the borough, ensuring they continue to serve as valuable hubs for our communities.”
While the market building undergoes redevelopment, it is anticipated that traders will continue to operate from Rawtenstall Town Square, ensuring minimal disruption to business and allowing the market to remain active during the refurbishment.
The Rawtenstall Market redevelopment is expected to commence in March next year, with further updates to follow as work progresses. This investment in the town’s future will bring long-term benefits to both the market and the wider community.