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Northampton Market Square Set to Reopen

Posted by alex on July 12, 2024
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Image credit: West Northamptonshire Council

 

Exciting news for Northampton residents! The much-anticipated reopening of the town-centre market square is set for 20 September. After an extensive £10m redevelopment, the historic market is ready to welcome back traders and shoppers to its traditional site.

West Northamptonshire Council has been hard at work transforming the market square as part of a broader town-centre improvement scheme aimed at attracting more visitors and businesses. The facelift, which began in February 2023, includes 18 fixed stalls, new paving, water features, and seating areas. These enhancements promise to make the market square a vibrant hub for the community once again.

During the 18-month project, traders were temporarily relocated to the Commercial Street car park. This move, while necessary, posed significant challenges for many traders, with some reporting a drastic drop in their takings. Les Brennan, owner of LJB Rutherfords key-cutting stall, described the experience as “absolute rubbish,” likening it to “groundhog day” due to the lack of foot traffic.

Despite these hardships, there is a palpable sense of optimism as the reopening date approaches. Dan Lister, cabinet member for the local economy at the Conservative-controlled council, expressed his delight at the market’s return. “The refurbishment of our market square is a core part of the significant investment in and regeneration of Northampton,” he said. “We are delighted to be able to welcome a diverse mix of stalls and traders when we reopen in just a few weeks’ time.”

Mr Brennan echoed this sentiment, noting that the announcement of the reopening date feels like “the light at the end of the tunnel gets a little bit bigger.” He added, “They said it would be late summer – they’ve made it with two days to spare.”

As the countdown to 20 September begins, the council is working closely with traders to ensure a smooth transition back to the market square. This revitalised space promises to be a bustling centre of commerce and community, breathing new life into Northampton’s town centre.

 

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