Bacup Market Traders Upset Over Rossendale Council Plan Changes

The council asked all market businesses to leave in January. They had planned a new market hall and public square. The project’s budget was £8.3 million. However, the council said it was now too expensive. Planning issues with highways and flood authorities caused this.

Sue Holt owned Sue’s Café. She said the council did not understand the impact. Sue said being removed from the market made her depressed. Sue had worked there for twelve years. She felt the council’s plans were unrealistic.

She believed they never had enough money. She thinks there was no reason to close the market. The council will reassess regeneration plans for Bacup. They want to improve public spaces and streets.

This should create a welcoming place. They aim for residents, businesses, and visitors. Sue suggested a play area in the market. She thought it a better, cheaper option.

She doesn’t understand why they left without permission. She thinks traders are the only losers. The site stays closed for utility work. The development should still finish on time.

Allyson Barnes said the market will reopen in 2026. She said Bacup is a market town. Council leader Barnes said they could revisit the plans. They will use funds most effectively.

The focus will shift from one building. They will now explore improvements for the town. Changes in government gave more flexibility. They can adjust the plans. This should help achieve better results for Bacup.

They want to deliver real improvements. Revising plans will reflect community needs. They hope for long-term town benefits.