'Exciting' developments on the way for Chorley's markets under £600,000 revamp

Chorley Council, which operates the covered and street markets, has drawn up plans to improve the attractions.

And it says it is still in talks about some 'exciting proposals'.

The plans have resulted in the closure of stalls on the covered market on Mondays since lockdown restrictions were lifted some weeks ago.

Councillor Peter Wilson, Deputy Leader of Chorley Council, explained: “It’s important that we continue to improve our renowned covered market as it’s a real focal point for the town.

"Earlier this year we announced that we were going to invest £400,000 in the covered market and we’ve been regularly consulting with market traders about the work.

"Some of this work includes redecoration of the interior and exterior and also to provide seasonal protection.

"There are also number of other exciting proposals that we are still discussing, including work to enhance the entrances to the market."

He added: "We’ve recently allocated a further £200,000 so that we can extend the work to cover the revamping of the street/event market stalls (gazebos) and public toilets.

"We’re currently developing the work schedule but expect work to start in the coming months.

"Contractors will have access to the market on Sundays, Mondays and Wednesdays so that the work can be carried out with minimal disruption for traders and visitors.”

Malcolm Allen, chairman of the Chorley Traders Alliance, said: "It will be a good thing and obviously, because they can't close the market down, they're staging the work Sundays, Mondays and Wednesdays, around the market days, which doesn't interrupt trade.

"The only thing it does affect is Mondays. That should get back to normal when the work is complete."