Traders sought for Accrington’s historic Market Hall

Hyndburn Council will soon be seeking new market traders and food and drink operators to take space at Accrington’s historic Market Hall when it reopens in November.

The date for it to start operating after multi-million pound revamp has been revealed as consultants prepare to start the recruitment process for new stallholders to join existing ones who return.

The authority has confirmed that construction work on the Grade-II heritage-listed building remains scheduled for completion in mid-July.

Hyndburn Council, whose decision to run the market hall itself has been criticised by opposition Tory group leader Cllr Zak Khan as ‘disappointing’, is working with consultants Barker Proudlove on trader recruitment with details for potential new businesses becoming available in the coming weeks.

The authority is already engaged in conversations with existing traders about their return to the transformed 1868 building following construction completion in mid-July.

The historic market hall is being transformed into a modern venue combining traditional market trading with independent businesses, food and drink, and entertainment space.

It will feature traditional trading stalls on the ground floor, mezzanine-level units for small shops and services, and a dedicated food and drink area designed for casual eating.

It will also be able to host entertainment, community events and social gatherings.

Over the coming months, the council will be finalising new lease agreements and planning the process for the existing traders who are returning.

The mid-November opening date is designed to ensure a smooth transition from the temporary outdoor market on the Town Square.

Hyndburn Council’s town centres boss Cllr Clare Pritchard said: “We’re thrilled to be entering the next stage of this exciting project and look forward to welcoming back many of our existing traders who have shown incredible commitment throughout the refurbishment.

“We’re also on the lookout for new businesses to join us in creating something special for Hyndburn.

“We’re creating a destination that honours Accrington’s proud market tradition while offering something genuinely new.

“A place where generations can come together to shop, eat, socialise and enjoy what local businesses have to offer.

“The new Market Hall will offer a vibrant mix of traditional stalls and fresh, flexible, modern spaces for food, drink and independent retail.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for traders to be part of a thriving destination at the heart of our town centre.”

Whilst the council’s initial focus will be on working with the existing traders occupying the temporary market, Cllr Pritchard said attention will soon switch to recruiting a number of new traders to compliment and improve the current offer.