New market kiosks arrive in Ashton-Under-Lyne as major regeneration milestone is reached

Excitement is growing in Ashton-under-Lyne as the first of the town’s brand-new market kiosks have now arrived on site, marking a significant step forward in the ambitious transformation of the market square.

The delivery of the units signals the beginning of the visible phase of a project that has been months in the making and forms a central part of Tameside Council’s wider regeneration plans.

The kiosks, designed by architectural practice Buttress, with landscape design by Planit, technical consultancy from LK Group, and delivery support from Casey Construction, have been produced by modular specialists WhiteCrate. Once complete, the newly reimagined civic space will host a flexible programme of events, markets, and cultural activities, complemented by high-quality food and drink traders, local produce, and selected retail operating from the kiosks alongside existing general market traders.

After intensive preparation both on site and behind the scenes, residents can now see the first tangible signs of progress. Installation of the fully finished units began on Monday 16 November, with local transport specialists HTF working alongside WhiteCrate to manage the complex logistics of positioning the modular structures within the market square.

“It’s always exciting when a project moves from drawings and site prep to something tangible,” said Jon Flowerdew, Managing Director of WhiteCrate. “Our modular approach means the kiosks arrive fabricated off-site in our Northwest facility, reducing disruption, accelerating delivery, and providing an immediate visual impact on site. This type of regeneration is exactly where modular construction comes into its own.”

Councillor Andrew McLaren, Deputy Leader and Executive Member for Growth, Housing and Homelessness, also welcomed the progress: “Seeing the new market kiosks arrive marks an exciting moment for Ashton. These units represent not just a physical transformation, but the beginning of a new chapter for the town centre. Made in the Northwest, the design quality and craftsmanship are exceptional, and it’s great to see local partners like WhiteCrate, Buttress, and HTF contributing to such a positive regeneration story for Tameside. If you are a business interested in taking on one of the new kiosks, you can contact a member of the Markets Team on markets@tameside.gov.uk or 0161 342 3268.”

Buttress, the project’s architects, have shaped a design that reflects the heritage of Ashton-under-Lyne while injecting new life into the space.

“We have enjoyed working hand in hand with Tameside Council and WhiteCrate to create these unique kiosks and promote Ashton as a vibrant and aspirational destination marketplace,” said Paul Hobson, senior architect at Buttress. “We hope the addition of the colourful kiosks can act as a catalyst for wider celebration of Ashton’s public realm and town centre improvement.”