Barnoldswick is all set to hold its first regular open air market since 1970 subject to clearance with Liberata.
Pendle Council’s West Craven Committee gave the proposal the green light at its August meeting on Tuesday night and it is hoped the first of these can be run before the end of the month.
Keith Mitchell, representing Barnoldswick Chamber of Trade, spoke about the proposal at Tuesday’s meeting which would be run under his new venture Pendle Valley Markets.
He said the idea has been under consideration for around six to eight months and highlighted the success of markets in nearby towns such as Settle and Skipton.
Mr Mitchell said: “Most places you go to now have a market and they are quite busy. People’s buying habits have changed. Instead of going to designer places, people want quality produce at reasonable prices.
“The way forward would be to have a quality market which would encourage people to come into the town itself, not just to the market. I think it would help tourism.”
Mr Mitchell also spoke of potentially catching coach trade to venues such as Skipton Market or Boundary Mill Stores in Colne.
He would like to capitalise on the popularity of Barnoldswick’s beach which he said had made “a massive difference” and draw people back to Barlick’s independent shops.
It is thought the market would be the first of its kind in Barnoldswick for 43 years. Mr Mitchell says he would supply the stalls so traders would only need to bring products, that way giving a little more control who operates.
Councillors unanimously agreed that the plan was a good idea. Market days are planned for Thursdays and Saturdays at first and would be held in the town’s square.
