Leigh market is set for a major refurbishment which will see a new roof, entrance, and lobby area built. Wigan Council has submitted a planning application for the market, which traces its history back hundreds of years.
Preparatory works are also set to take place at several units within Spinning Gate shopping centre. Following discussions with traders, the market will be temporarily located in these units next year, while the refurbishment of the main market hall gets underway.
Traders previously operated at Market Place, across from St Mary the Virgin Church on today’s Civic Square, while an indoor facility was later constructed at Leigh Road in the 1960s. The current market hall at Gas Street was built in 1988, and although its mix of traders ensures it remains as one of the town centre’s most popular features, significant improvement works have been identified at the building, particularly to the roof.
The council included the building’s revamp as part of its Levelling Up, now Local Regeneration Fund scheme. The council said the improvements would provide weatherproof, thermally insulated protection for traders and shoppers. It said the replacement roof will vastly improve the building’s current condition while also helping to make market operations run more efficiently through the installation of solar panels.
A new, modern entrance aims to raise the profile of the market and maximise footfall. A wide, front facing entrance and lobby has been designed to attract visitors from Bradshawgate and provide views in and out of the market, with clear, contemporary signs. An illuminated façade has also been proposed to highlight the building’s year-round usage, while the entrance’s pleated features and palette pay homage to Leigh’s market town heritage, traditional pitched stalls, and surrounding architecture.
Coun Dane Anderton, portfolio holder for economic development and regeneration, said: “The proposals for Leigh Market represent an exciting opportunity to refurbish a much-loved community venue that is home to a diverse group of traders. While these plans aim to protect the future of the market and put it in a much more stable condition, we want to ensure that the development works for both traders and shoppers alike. I’m pleased that after productive discussions with traders, the temporary market will be located as close to the existing site as possible.”
Coun Anderton added: “While this application focuses on the exterior of the building and improving its structure and accessibility, the next stage of the design will include the technical detail and further information about the look and feel of the building interior. With an exciting future ahead, please continue showing your support for the exceptional traders who make Leigh Market the vibrant place that it is.”
