EXCLUSIVE

ACCRINGTON'S historic Market Hall is set to get an exciting £1M makeover after Hyndburn Council announced massive investment plans.

Councillors say the investment will make the market more attractive to modern shoppers, while keeping its traditional impressive historic features.

Councillor Marlene Haworth, Cabinet member for markets, said the Market Hall is an impressive building, of which Hyndburn people are proud, but is now in need of some serious investment to bring it into the 21st century.

She said: "We've been listening to market traders and shoppers, who have told us that although the Market Hall already provides an extensive range of products for sale, it really needs new investment to give an even greater range of goods and services for customers.

"The money will be used for a range of works, including bringing the mezzanine floor into use, installing a lift and escalators for easier access to the first floor, improving the lighting and heating systems, creating new stalls while improving others for existing traders, and adding more facilities for shoppers."

The plans could potentially bring more than 3,000 square feet of additional space into commercial use.

And the council is aiming to attract prestigious names to operate out of the new-look hall.

Design consultants will be appointed in the next few months and initial designs will be discussed fully with traders to ensure they have their say about the scheme.

The grade II listed building presents particular challenges around maintaining the historical aspects and re-designing for the modern age.

Council leader Peter Britcliffe added: "Accrington is already bucking the national trend with retail shopping numbers up in the town centre.

"A number of new shops have moved into Accrington, and this £1M investment comes on the back of the recent major refurbishment of Broadway, reflecting our confidence in Accrington.

"As I've said before, Accrington is open for business - and this huge investment is further proof of that.''

Market trader Ian Smith said: "This is great news as we have been hoping for investment in the Market Hall for some time.

"The new-look Market Hall will mean that we can offer our traditional service to customers in a more modern, warm and welcoming environment and we are looking forward to seeing the initial designs."

Councillor Britcliffe added: "This is a massive step forward in the redevelopment and refurbishment of Accrington Market Hall.

"It badly needs doing up as it has not been done for years.

"It should be the jewel in Hyndburn's crown and if these plans come to fruition it will be."