Angela Rayner, Deputy Prime Minister and MP for Ashton-under-Lyne, joined Tameside Council, The LK Group, The Casey Group, Planit IE, and Buttress Architects for a tour of Ashton’s Market Square last week.
Work is currently underway on the regeneration of Ashton’s famous market square, with the transformative project being funded by the UK Government’s Levelling Up Fund and Tameside Council.
The LK Group is Project Managing the overall scheme for Tameside Council, with Planit IE acting as the Lead Designer. Their sub-consultants include Buttress Architects, Civic Engineers, Hoare Lea and Simon Fenton Partnership. There are two Main Contractors on site with TMBC’s Engineers working on the new public realm, while The Casey Group is responsible for constructing the large canopy structure over new kiosks, which are being supplied by Whitecrate.
Angela Rayner met with the development team on Thursday, 17th April to see the progress that’s being made, as well as hear how the planned regeneration of Ashton’s Market Square will breathe new life into the town.
The plans will see a large canopy that will provide a designated undercover area for markets, providing space for 90 market stalls, as well as a new outdoor facility to house 10 retail food and beverage kiosks.
The space has also been designed to become a hub for events and cultural activities, with new gardens, play areas and a civic space all planned.
Councillor Andrew McLaren, Deputy Leader (Growth, Housing and Homelessness) said at Tameside Council, said: “Ashton town centre is undergoing a significant transformation that will see it become a thriving hub for living, culture, employment, and services. The regeneration of Ashton Market Square is a central part of this vision, and a vital step in creating a more vibrant, modern town centre that better meets the needs of our local community. The new space will feature an improved market offering and enhance the town’s ability to host more cultural and community events.”
Chris McManus, Senior Project Manager at The LK Group said: “We’re incredibly proud to be a part of the regeneration of such a historic and much-loved part of Ashton. It’s exciting to see the vision coming to life and it was a pleasure to welcome Angela Rayner on-site, sharing the progress being made on a project that will have a lasting and positive impact on the local community.”
The redevelopment of Ashton’s Market Square and outdoor market is phase one of a wider public realm strategy covering the whole of Ashton’s town centre.
