Middleton Market to be given new lease of life

The relocation of Middleton Market could see the introduction of special themed shopping days in a bid to increase trade and visitors to the town centre.

A planning application has been submitted that would see the existing permanent market on Suffield Street move to a more prominent location at Middleton Gardens.

The new market would feature demountable stalls which were successfully trialled over a year ago. The current 60 stall market is underused, but the new flexible layout at Middleton Gardens, would allow the market management company, Wendy Fair, to tailor the number of stalls to demand.

Rochdale Development Agency is facilitating the relocation as part of the regeneration of the town centre.  Tesco is expected to start development work on that part of its site next spring.

Nichola Cooke from Rochdale Development Agency said: “The trial was really well received by the public and the idea is to offer special themed markets such as farmer’s days. During the trial day the market was bustling and vibrant and we think this new location will also help bring visitor and shoppers into the town centre.”

Rochdale Development Agency is working with the Council and Impact Partnership to progress the transformation of the town centre and this move is within the Masterplan for the area.

Nick Hobday of Wendy Fair said: “We are fully supportive of the relocation plan and we think it will safeguard the future of the market.  As well as offering the general market, we would aim to introduce special themed days and we are currently in contact with the organiser of a travelling French market. This move will enable the market to evolve and grow.”

The Local Planning Authority is expected to make a decision in the next two months.  If it is given the go-ahead the market could relocate this summer.