Ambitious plans for Ashton market get the nod from Tameside Council
Plans to reinvigorate Ashton-under-Lyne’s Market Square with Levelling Up Fund money have been given the green light this week by the Tameside Council’s Local Planning Authority.
After engaging with residents, market traders and stakeholders for more than a year through a number of workshops and events to shape the plans which the government agreed to in October 2019.
The granting of planning permission meets a critical milestone to enable the Market Square scheme to be completed by March 2025.
The redevelopment will include a new canopy for the markets and will include flexible space for events and activities alongside kiosks.
The plans include additional green spaces, trees and planting as well as new street furniture and informal play spaces.
The £19.87m of Leveling Up Fund money is being spread across a number of projects in the Tameside town, including the construction of new homes, new offices, commercial spaces, a new health and wellbeing hub, and retail spaces. It will also seek to improve access between the town centre and the surrounding areas.
Lindsay Humblet, Director at Planit-IE and lead designer on the project, said the work has been going on behind the scenes for “a number of years” supporting the regeneration of Ashton’s Market Quarter.
“Ashton Market is the beating heart of the town and the Market Grounds proposals draws in this rich character and references from the towns heritage. Once completed as well as growing the towns vibrant market offer with a new canopy and kiosks, the square will also provide space for Ashtonians to enjoy the new gardens, play areas and activities planned for the new Civic Square.
“Ultimately we are trying to create a modern market town for everyone, a destination attracting locals and visitors, hosting a range of entertaining events.”
Councillor Vimal Choksi, Executive Member (Towns and Communities) said: “The plans for the Market Square will help unlock the potential regeneration of the town centre and work will start on the square early next year.”
“We have listened and responded to residents and businesses feedback and will continue to engage with local traders and businesses as we move forward with the exciting plans and bringing in high quality public realm will create a better space for events and help to bring in more visitors to the town centre.”
