Town centre redevelopment plans take another step forward

A huge step has been taken in the regeneration of Ashton’s town centre.

Tameside council has cleared out the old market stalls in the heart of their biggest town, with Market Square resembling a building site. Now the local authority has taken the next step towards replacing the old market setup in the shadow of the town hall.

The council is now seeking planning permission to rearrange the market hall next to the square as well as the steps leading up the disused town hall.

One proposal would see the reconfiguration of the existing market hall to provide new food and beverage stalls; flexible seating areas; exhibition space; flexible working space; and new toilet facilities.

The second, separate, planning application would see the refurbishment and restoration of the tired looking steps up to Ashton Town Hall. The steps are on the side facing Market Square, which is currently undergoing its own £14.6m regeneration project.

The multi-million pound scheme will see a large canopy containing 10 market kiosks built – replacing the bulldozed 104 market stalls.

The new covering, expected to be delivered by the end of the year, will provide outdoor market traders with protection from the weather and would become a hub for events and cultural activities, according to Tameside council.

The plans for the market hall and town hall, if approved, would complement the plans for the new canopy in the square.

All these changes in Ashton all form part of a wider plan to completely overhaul the town centre – which council bosses are actively seeking developer partners for.

The major redevelopment project could see up to 2,400 new homes built; 12.5 hectares of commercial space created to support businesses and jobs; and Greater Manchester’s first fully connected Bee Network station introduced.

Tameside council’s executive cabinet believe the overarching town centre plan, boosted by the £20m Levelling Up funding, would futureproof the town for years to come.

Coun Andrew McLaren, deputy leader and executive member for growth, housing and homelessness, said previously: “These plans build on the progress already underway through the Ashton Mayoral Development Zone. By linking together key sites and opportunities both public and private, we’re creating a stronger foundation for growth.

“Through the Ashton Growth Corridor and Mayoral Development Zone, we’re combining major investment, strategic planning, and a new regeneration partnership to deliver homes, jobs, and vibrant public spaces across Ashton town centre.”