COUNCIL bosses have envisioned a new future for Radcliffe Market that they say will boost trade and encourage people to the town centre.

Bury Council say they want to put food and drink plus entertainment at the market’s heart that will see it open on more days and in the evenings.

Interested parties in the management and operation of the market are now invited to express their thoughts with informal discussions due to take place thereafter.

Cllr Rishi Shori, leader of Bury Council, said: “Radcliffe is changing, and so are markets, and we want Radcliffe Market Hall to change with it.

“Major developments have taken place, and more are planned, around the market hall and the town centre and work is well under way on a new Lidl supermarket, next to the market, which complements the new bus station completed by Transport for Greater Manchester.

“We are also seeking opportunities to redevelop vacant council-owned premises on Dale Street.

“We want to take advantage of these developments and see the market as crucial to the town’s ongoing regeneration.”

Last year, council bosses gave the struggling market 12 months to improve after watching it suffer a severe decline following a £1 million refurbishment.

Trade in recent months has seen a slight increase in footfall, with less empty stalls at the market but some stallholders had said they may have to leave after not generating enough trade.

Cllr Shori added: “The retail environment has changed out of all recognition in recent years. While there is still a place for traditional markets, so many of us now do much of our shopping online for home delivery.

“To make the most of what Radcliffe has to offer, we’re looking to see the market open on more days and in the evenings, and see expanding the food and drink offer as a vital element in making it a unique and popular attraction for the area.”

Bury Council is inviting expressions of interest from individuals or organisations in the management and operation of Radcliffe Market.

Meetings are due to take place on weeks commencing July 31 or August 7.

For more details of the proposals, go to www.bury.gov.uk/radcliffemarket-eoi