ASHTON’S transformed Market Square will officially open its doors this month as part of a spectacular day of Christmas celebrations in the town centre.
Tameside Council has confirmed that the revamped square will take centre stage as residents and visitors are invited to explore its new-look facilities at Tameside’s Northern Lights Winter Parade and Christmas lights switch-on.
The opening on Saturday, November 14, marks a major milestone in the redevelopment, with 10 new permanent kiosks and a flexible events space set to provide a fresh home for independent traders, markets and community events.
The contemporary kiosks will bring together familiar faces from Ashton Market alongside new businesses, offering a varied selection of goods and services, from street food and fresh produce to gifts and everyday essentials.
Meanwhile, the events space will host traditional general markets, speciality markets and activities throughout the year.
Festivities will get under way at 11am on November 14 with the launch of a Christmas Market, which will run until Saturday, November 28. A festive funfair, live music and performances from the stage area will also form part of the opening celebrations.
The excitement will continue into the evening when the Tameside Northern Lights Winter Parade sets off from Ashton Old Baths at 5pm. The parade is expected to arrive in the Market Square at around 6pm for the Christmas lights switch-on and a firework finale.
The redevelopment has seen the square redesigned to provide a more welcoming space, with additional seating, improved lighting, artwork, greenery and more room for events.
The council says the aim is to encourage people to spend more time in the town centre, providing a place to meet friends, enjoy activities and support local businesses as well as shop.
‘This investment is also about the future’
Councillor Eleanor Wills, the local authority’s Executive Leader, said this is an exciting time for the town.
“The transformation of Ashton Market Square is about much more than creating a new look,” she said. “It’s about creating a welcoming place that meets modern day shopping and leisure habits, where people can come together, support local businesses, enjoy events and spend time with family and friends in the heart of our town centre.
“I’m delighted to officially open the square as part of the Northern Lights Winter Parade and Christmas celebrations, giving residents and visitors the chance to experience everything this fantastic new community space has to offer.”
Cllr Wills added: “Importantly, this investment is also about the future. We’re creating a long-term asset for Ashton that will serve our communities for generations to come, providing a modern, attractive space where people can connect, celebrate and make memories together for many years ahead.”
Further improvements are planned following the November launch, although the new kiosks and Market Square will remain fully operational while work continues.
Contractors will return to complete paving between the canopy and market hall, carry out final finishing touches to the canopy, install new benches and plant additional trees.
Work will also continue on the renovation of Ashton Town Hall steps, alongside improvements to Fletcher Square, Market Street and Bow Street. These will include new paving, lighting, planting and street furniture.
The wider project – funded through Government investment and shaped by feedback from businesses, residents and other stakeholders – forms part of ongoing efforts to improve Ashton town centre and strengthen its local economy.
Visitors heading into the town for the celebrations can also take advantage of free parking for up to two hours in all Tameside Council car parks before 6pm, Monday to Saturday. A free ticket must be displayed in vehicles.