Delays to opening of transformed Colne Market
Published Friday, 22nd August 2025
Lengthy negotiations with Pendle Borough Council's preferred operator for Colne's Market Hall have led to a delay in the expected opening of the renewed high street property.
The Council is still in negotiations with the Market Quarter Group and is now also looking at alternative options which include other private operators as well as managing the market venue itself.
Councillor David Whipp, Leader of Pendle Borough Council, said: “Our aim was to open the new market, complete with new food, drink and leisure opportunities in time for Christmas.
“It's clear that this is now too ambitious. We don't want to move existing traders from Hartley Square at the wrong time of year, so early spring next year is looking likely.
"The shell of the building is nearly complete and new high-quality natural stone flags will soon be laid at the front of the building to enhance Colne's traditional street scene.
“Once structural work is complete, we are looking at opportunities for pop-up events in the newly refurbished space before the transformed market venue opens in 2026.
“It will be good to get a confirmed operator in place and work with them to develop the Market Hall as a destination venue for next year.
“We continue to promote the market traders in their current locations to encourage people to keep shopping locally.”
Colne Market Hall is undergoing a £3.5m government funded transformation, including a new food court and pop-up market, alongside units for existing market traders. Space is being prepared for a creative quarter on the first floor through a final future phase of work.
The newly flagged area in front of the market will be available for "al fresco" dining, the outdoor market, speciality markets and outdoor events.
Existing market traders have been advised about the revised timescale for moving back into the revamped Market Hall.