Ashton Town Centre
Ashton Town Centre regeneration
We’re transforming Ashton Town Centre into a vibrant, welcoming place to shop, work, live and visit.
What’s happening?
Following public consultation in late 2022 and feedback from the Love Ashton event, the Ashton Town Centre Public Realm Strategy was approved in March 2023. Planning permission was granted in September 2023, and main construction works began in 2024, continuing through to March 2026.
Ashton Market Square
Funded by £10.8 million from the Government’s Levelling Up Fund, the project focuses on revitalising Ashton Market Square and the Outdoor Market.
Key improvements include:
- A large canopy structure replacing existing kiosks and stalls
- Re-orientated market units to support modern traders
- New paving, seating, lighting, planting and CCTV
- Enhanced space for community events and performances
Temporary arrangements:
- Outdoor market traders are temporarily located at Fletcher Square
- Markets operate on Tuesdays and Saturdays
- The Indoor Market remains open as usual
We’re committed to minimising disruption and supporting businesses throughout the works. Please continue to shop local and enjoy Ashton Town Centre as it evolves.
You said, We did
Local feedback has shaped the new market design. The transformation aims to:
- Support local businesses and traders
- Attract new investment
- Create a more inclusive and adaptable public space
New Kiosks – Expressions of Interest
With redevelopment well underway and reopening planned for next year, we’re inviting expressions of interest for ten brand-new kiosks.
Some fantastic traders are already confirmed, including:
- Market Ground Coffee House
- Wilsons Fruit and Veg
- Alf's Shoe Repairs
We’re looking for high-quality food and drink businesses, though small retail offers may also be considered.
Interested? Email markets@tameside.gov.uk for an information pack.
Indoor Market Hall improvements
Ashton Market Hall will be upgraded using £250,000 of UKSPF/FLAG funding. Planned improvements include:
- A refreshed layout to support traders
- A new food and beverage area
- Enhanced toilet and changing facilities
- More space for activities and events
Looking ahead
This regeneration is part of the wider Ashton-under-Lyne Masterplan, which includes:
- Redevelopment of Arcades and Ladysmith Shopping Centres
- Restoration of Ashton Town Hall
- Improved connectivity to transport hubs
- New mixed-use developments and housing
Read more about plans for the Ashton Mayoral Development Zone.
Stay updated
- View the Public Realm Strategy Summary
- Read the Ashton Masterplan
- Sign up to our e-newsletter
- Or email us at ashton.publicrealm@tameside.gov.uk
Latest News
- 29/10/25 – Installation of new canopy underway at Ashton Market Square
- 24/10/25 – Restoration of Ashton Town Hall moves forward with vision for 2030 completion
- 06/10/25 – Plans to extend Ashton’s Public Space Protection Order
- 21/08/25 – Regeneration vision approval kicks off search for developer partner
- 15/05/25 – Exciting new plans to continue Ashton Town Centre’s transformation