First glimpse of how new Northwich Market will look at Barons Quay
Cheshire West and Chester Council has offered the first glimpse of how the new Northwich Market will look when it relocates to Barons Quay. Back in July, the authority's ruling cabinet rubber-stamped plans to move the market and Northwich Information Centre as part of a wider scheme to regenerate Weaver Square.
Now, the first architect visualisation has been released showing how the market could look when it's expected to open in winter 2025 The market will be relocated to two empty corner units opposite H&M with potential for ‘al fresco’ dining and what the council called a more ‘modern market’.
In the meantime, council chiefs have also confirmed that the existing Northwich Market will open an extra day in the run up to the move. The market will be open four days a week from Thursday, October 3 after traders had asked for the council to add Thursday openings ahead of the relocation.
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According to the council, the new market will benefit from investment of around £1.8m with bespoke designed fixtures and facilities to provide a significantly improved experience for customers and traders while complementing the existing retailers, leisure and food and drink options already in Barons Quay.
The authority says it is working with all the existing traders to offer space for them in the new market, while also bringing in new businesses to ensure the market can thrive in its new location. Claire Forster, owner of the Style Hut lady’s boutique, said: "The new market will be an exciting addition to Barons Quay and The Style Hut is excited to move with the market into a new revitalised building with higher footfall. We look forward to learning more about the plans."
Andrea Leacy, owner of the Market Café, added: "We are really looking forward to moving to the new market in Barons Quay, this will enable our family business to move forward with longer trading hours and more footfall in a new location with improved modern facilities." Having rubber-stamped the plans, the council is now seeking a private sector partner for the Weaver Square project, which will see empty shops and buildings replaced with 4.4-acre mixed use development including town centre living.
Councillor Nathan Pardoe, cabinet member for inclusive economy, regeneration and digital transformation, said: "There are great times ahead for Northwich Market as part of Cheshire West and Chester Council’s transformation of Weaver Square, which will bring homes and people to the heart of Northwich. It is fantastic that existing market traders are supporting the plans to move Northwich Market to Barons Quay.
"Ahead of the move, Northwich Market remains open for business, and I hope that people continue to support the traders in Weaver Square and make the most of the extended opening times. It’s also a great opportunity for new traders to join the wonderful team in Northwich Market and establish their business. The council remains committed to Northwich Market and all of its markets across the borough."
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