Town centre sees 'much-needed' regeneration work begin after traders demand market changes

Refurbishment work on Hyde's outdoor market has commenced, with completion expected by early 2025. Tameside council started the project last week to enhance the town centre for businesses and visitors.

The plan includes replacing the fixed market stall on the outdoor market with parasols and creating a more flexible space for community events. Tameside Council's masterplan for Hyde emphasised that a versatile space for markets and events, complemented by new plantings, would attract more visitors.

The existing outdoor market, rebuilt in 2012 at a cost of £1.2m, requires further improvements according to market traders. These enhancements include removing four of the six fixed market stalls and installing a more flexible parasol system, while keeping two of the existing fixed stalls.

Other tasks involve extensive tree maintenance, replanting granite planters, improving Millennium Park, installing new decorative lighting, and other undisclosed projects. A funding of £737,000 from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and the Hyde Accelerator Programme is being utilised for these works.

Coun Stephen Homer, who is in charge of towns, transport and connectivity, said: "These works will kickstart the much-needed regeneration of Hyde town centre building on some recent improvements to the town. Further projects are proposed as part of the Hyde Accelerator Programme which include improving greenspaces and planting to make the town centre more attractive and welcoming for visitors and local people alike.", reports the Manchester Evening News.

He also mentioned that "The changes to Market Ground will ensure this key civic space in the heart of the town can operate more flexibly for events including markets and other activities."

He outlined that several engaging events aimed at attracting more visitors were on the agenda, highlighting past and future attractions such as the Halloween event with its Lantern Parade, and the anticipated Christmas Market at the town hall. Town hall leaders have indicated that the market improvements should be finished by early 2025.