The traders at Bolton Market are continuing to offer great value and fresh local produce, even as work is carried out to ensure this much-loved venue can offer customers even more.

The market is undergoing a major renovation, backed by £5.59m from the government’s Towns Fund.

Work has already been carried out to move the main access road to the site and relocate the waste compound.

With this preparation work completed, local firm Seddon is now working to improve the outdoor market area, add a new food hall and make other improvements to entrances and the fabric of the building.

The new-look Bolton Market will offer a wider variety of stalls, appeal to younger shoppers and create a space where people can meet and socialise in the evenings.

The ultimate aim is to increase both the number of visitors and the amount of time they spend there.

It is hoped the modernised space will appeal to university and college students, as well as offering a convenient shopping destination for residents of the new Moor Lane development.

Cllr Martyn Cox leader of Bolton Council said: “Bolton’s award-winning market is one of our best town centre assets, offering quality local products at great prices.

“As we modernise the town centre, we want the market to adapt to meet the changing needs of customers.

“Having more people living in the town centre will make it a more vibrant and attractive place.

“The renovated Bolton Market will offer these new town centre residents the ideal place to shop and meet up, while continuing to offer excellent service to our many regular customers.”

John Shannon, Divisional Director at Seddon said: “The market has been at the heart of the town for many years now and we’re delighted to be involved in its transformation into a more vibrant and attractive space.

“The new market will be a social hub for people to shop, eat and socialise and we’re excited to see the finished project.

“As a Bolton business it means a great deal to us to see investment in the town and this scheme is just one of many that are taking place to bring people back to the heart of Bolton.”