Council consults traders while ‘exciting’ refurbishment of Rawtenstall Market takes place

Traders of a popular Lancashire market were recently consulted over future arrangements while the markets are being refurbished.

Rossendale Borough Council, along with Day Architects, recently held a consultation meeting with traders from Rawtenstall Market to discuss arrangements for the market’s upcoming full refurbishment. 

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This project is a key part of the council’s ongoing efforts to regenerate town centres and markets across the entire borough and is part of the plans laid out in Rawtenstall’s MasterPlan. 

The refurbishment of Rawtenstall Market is designed to enhance the market’s appeal, making it a more attractive and fit for purpose destination for businesses, shoppers, and visitors alike. 

During the meeting, various options to allow traders to continue trading whilst the work is carried out were presented. 

The majority of the traders expressed their satisfaction with being actively involved in the decision-making process, appreciating the opportunity to have their voices heard. 

A spokesperson for Rossendale Borough Council commented on the significance of the project, said, “This is an incredibly exciting time for Rawtenstall and the wider borough. 

“But we also appreciate that this is a nerve racking time for the traders with the uncertainty about where and how they will continue to run their businesses whilst the work is carried out.  

“We want to thank all for their feedback and active participation in the process. It’s important that we bring our market traders along with us on this journey, ensuring their needs are listened to about where and how they can continue to trade whilst the refurbishment is carried out.  

“The refurbishment of the market is a crucial component of Rawtenstall’s MasterPlan and we want to try and ensure we get the best outcome.” 

Following the consultation, the council will now take the preferred option forward and develop detailed plans and costs for the temporary relocation. 

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The council will report back to the traders and the wider community at a later date with further updates. 

This refurbishment is just one of many initiatives under the town’s MasterPlan, all aimed at transforming Rawtenstall into a thriving, attractive hub for commerce and tourism.