Long-standing trader gives new look Chorley Market the thumbs up

Artists impression of how Chorley Market may look with further refurbishment work.

A number of changes are being made as businesses start to reopen.

Last year, Chorley Council agreed to invest £600,000 to enhance the town's famous markets.

Despite the pandemic, renovation work has been ongoing since Autumn with the most noticeable change being the recent removal of the large spike like canopies over the main entrance.

John Brennand, who has been a trader at Chorley Market for over 50 years, said: “It’s great that the market continues to benefit from council investment.

"It’s not just about a lick of paint, but it’s also about keeping up with the times so visitors return time after time.

"It’s been at the heart of Chorley for a very long time and if we keep investing and improving it, I’m sure it will continue to flourish for a long time to come.”

Councillor Peter Wilson, deputy leader of Chorley Council, said: “It’s important that we continue to evolve the town centre to meet the changing needs of visitors.

"We need to give people a reason to come to Chorley in the future and the changes we have been making over the last couple of years are all part of these plans.

“Our markets are a focal point when people are visiting Chorley, so it’s not only important that we maintain our unique market, we must also continue to enhance it and improve the visitor experience, to help support the local economy – right now, that’s is more important than ever.”

Renovation work to the market includes, a fresh new look to the exterior of the building - the interior has benefitted from full redecoration, improved lighting and works continue to improve seasonal protection in the centre walkway.

The gazebos used for the street market and local events have had new canopies and their frames refurbished.

Further exciting proposals for the two main entrances are currently in the pipeline with proposed designs including new eye-catching signage with LED lighting and glass panels for improved lighting inside.

New modern colour schemes being implemented reflect those used on the new part of Market Walk, to provide cohesion across the areas of the town centre.

Councillor Wilson continued: “We are looking forward to welcoming visitors and traders back to the town centre when restrictions start to lift – we’ve really missed them.

“Of course there will still be COVID-19 measures in place for a while yet, however in the future we are looking forward to visitors being able to enjoy some leisure time in the town centre, whether that be at one of the entertainment venues in Market Walk or the many hospitality businesses Chorley has to offer.

"Hopefully we’ll be able to host some town centre events in the not so distant future too.”