Proposed new designs for the covered market in Ashton-under-Lyne have been submitted for planning approval. As lead designer, Planit has been engaging with local residents, market traders and stakeholders for more than a year through a number of engagement workshops and events.

An impressive new canopy will provide a designated undercover area for markets to include flexible, durable market stalls and kiosks. The canopy and kiosks will frame views of the listed Town Hall and Market Hall buildings and improve walking routes through to the square in all directions.

Lindsay Humblet, Director at Planit and lead designer on the project, said: "The way the new elevations have been designed, frame both the clock tower of the Market Hall and also Town Hall’s beautiful facade. This was a crucial requirement, we want the people arriving at the square to see these incredible views and some of Ashton's greatest assets.  I've been working with Tameside’s team for a number of years, it is a beautiful town and we believe the proposals for the Market Quarter will become a catalyst for further regeneration.”

A large space in front of the Town Hall will be reserved for events, with a series of connecting smaller spaces creating places for visitors to socialise and relax. A spokesperson for Tameside Council said: “The changes to the Market Square and public realm using Levelling Up monies are essential to unlock Ashton’s potential for regeneration. We’ve taken everyone’s feedback into account to help shape the plans to turn the town centre into a place that meets the needs of current and future generations and help make it a place to be proud of, where people want to live, work and spend time.” 

The design proposals will encourage existing market users to continue to use and make the most of the space. The creation of new gardens, play areas and a new civic space have all been designed to encourage day and evening activity for the entire community and make the space more inclusive and welcoming. 

Kimberley Corrall, Buttress Associate, said: "The regeneration of the market area presents an exciting opportunity for Ashton Town Centre as a new modern market town offering space for different types of events. Our approach has been centred around creating a bespoke canopy and kiosks that will be flexible, enabling them to have many uses from day to night – from large-scale events to stalls and kiosks that will be attractive to local start-ups and small-medium sized businesses.  As well as enhancing the area, these will encourage town centre footfall." 

As a sustainability and drainage measure, Ashton Market Square will also see Sustainable urban Drainage Systems (SuDS) planted, both in the square and wider areas. SuDS allow water to infiltrate into the ground rather than being directed straight to sewers, reducing the risk of flooding and pollution caused by surface runoff while also providing valuable green spaces, improving the aesthetics and biodiversity of the area.

Paul Morris, Director at Civic Engineers, said: “The Market Square and new canopy structure will be transformational for Ashton. As well as creating a fantastic new focal point for the town, the introduction of nature-based SuDS solutions including raingardens and tree pits will provide climate resilience, managing surface water and protecting against flooding whilst increasing biodiversity within the landscape.

“We’re delighted to be part of the design team hoping to bring these important regeneration works to life.”

Illustrative visuals by Buttress