A host of independent businesses are set to open in Ashton’s newly transformed Market Square as the countdown begins to its official reopening this autumn.
The square is in the final stages of a multi-million-pound redevelopment designed to create a welcoming community hub and visitor destination in the heart of Ashton-under-Lyne.
Ten permanent trading kiosks will sit alongside a flexible market space, allowing for the return of the traditional Ashton Outdoor Market, specialist markets and community events including the monthly Ashton Artisan Market, Super Saturday family activities and seasonal celebrations such as the Christmas lantern parade.
The first wave of traders has now been confirmed, with a mix of established Ashton Market favourites and new independent businesses taking up residence in the contemporary kiosks.
Among those opening are Oppa Kitchen, Royal Bagel by Danish Bakes, Mamma Julie’s, Its.2.say, Market Grounds Coffee, Naanwich, Wilson’s Fruit and Veg Ltd and Alf’s Key and Shoe Repairs.
Visitors can expect a diverse range of offerings, from Japanese and Korean street food at Oppa Kitchen and freshly made bagels and Scandinavian-inspired cakes from Royal Bagel by Danish Bakes, to homemade breakfasts, burgers and pizzas at Mamma Julie’s.
Elsewhere, Market Grounds will offer more than 50 varieties of coffee beans and loose teas alongside freshly baked treats, while Naanwich will serve freshly made naan bread sandwiches, premium doner kebabs, grilled chicken, wraps and loaded fries.
Wilson’s Fruit and Veg will continue to provide fresh produce and seasonal plants, while Alf’s Key and Shoe Repairs – a fixture in Ashton for 37 years – will offer its long-established repair service. Its.2.say will stock a range of gifts and greeting cards.
Two further kiosks will operate under a different model, with more details expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
Alongside the new businesses, the square has been redesigned with additional seating, improved lighting, public artwork, planting, handrails, bins and more open space to make it easier to navigate and better suited for year-round events.
The redevelopment, funded through Government Levelling Up funding, forms part of wider investment in Ashton town centre aimed at strengthening the local economy and enhancing nearby shopping and leisure areas.
Tameside Council Executive Leader Councillor Eleanor Wills said: “This is an exciting time for Ashton and this fantastic line up of traders will bring even more value to the expanding offer in the town. The enthusiastic take up of the new kiosks by quality, independent traders demonstrates the confidence the business community has in Ashton town centre and the opportunity this transformation brings.
“We’re building on the town’s strong market tradition while creating a space that works better for residents, businesses and visitors today – bringing people into the town and giving them multiple reasons to want to visit and spend time here.
“The countdown to the square reopening is on and I’m looking forward to the opportunities it will bring to the local community.”
Memuna, owner of Royal Bagel by Danish Bakes, added: “There is a real sense of change happening in Ashton. It’s great to be part of it and we’re looking forward to welcoming customers when we open.”
Residents were given a preview of the revamped square during Tameside’s Spring Family Festival in April, which attracted large crowds and showcased the site’s potential as a venue for community events.
Construction is now nearing completion, with the transformed Market Square expected to officially open this autumn.