Market hall will be transformed in major project

The market hall in Ashton will soon be transformed to complement the regeneration work underway in the town centre.

The existing market hall will be converted to better fit the needs of the town centre now Tameside council plans have been approved.

The rearranged hall will provide new food and beverage stalls; flexible seating areas; exhibition space; flexible working space; and new toilet facilities.

The Grade-II listed Ashton Market Hall sits overlooking Market Square, which is currently undergoing its own £14.6m regeneration project.

The square has been a building site for months, but is now starting to show signs of the multi-million pound scheme promised by the end of 2025. That separate project 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 local authorities.

All these changes in Ashton all form part of a wider plan to completely overhaul the town centre.

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.”

Ashton Market Hall. Credit: Charlotte Hall