Specialists set to run the new market

AN operator looks set to be appointed to run Rochdale’s new market.

Council chiefs have announced they intend to appoint market turnaround specialists Quarterbridge to take forward the redevelopment of the new market, when it moves to The Butts. They are proposing to formally appoint the company in the coming weeks.

Quarterbridge, who have worked with Accrington and Blackburn markets, alongside many others, were selected following a formal procurement process, with the council saying they were looking for an operator which can make the market an ‘important part of a vibrant and successful town centre, helping to attract more visitors and focus on high-quality products, particularly fresh food.’

Council leader Richard Farnell said: “What we want for Rochdale is a thriving market, which will be a focal point of our regenerated town centre and attract visitors from far and wide, as well as providing a great, high quality shopping offer for our residents, alongside our new shopping and leisure development, Rochdale Riverside.

“With many years of experience both advising and running markets up and down the country, we feel that Quarterbridge are in the best position to drive these plans forward.”

A planning application for the new market was submitted late last year, with plans to move it to a new, permanent location next to the re-opened River Roch, with the potential to create an indoor market hall in the former Santander building , which the council has now bought.