AN extra day has been added to Northwich Market's opening hours as controversial plans to move to Barons Quay take shape.

Cheshire West and Chester Council has confirmed the market will now open four days a week from Thursday, October 3. 

Traders had asked the council to add Thursdays to the market's openings times from 9am to 4pm on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

This comes as controversial plans to move the market to Barons Quay progress with the first architect visualisation published showing how it could look in its new corner location, expected to open in winter 2025.

The plans to move the market from Weaver Square to Barons Quay were approved by the council's ruling cabinet in July, despite concerns over the proposal being raised.

Cllr Nathan Pardoe, the council's cabinet member for inclusive economy, regeneration and digital transformation, said: "There are great times ahead for Northwich Market as part of Cheshire West and Chester Council’s transformation of Weaver Square, which will bring homes and people to the heart of Northwich.

"It is fantastic that existing market traders are supporting the plans to move Northwich Market to Barons Quay.

"Ahead of the move, Northwich Market remains open for business, and I hope that people continue to support the traders in Weaver Square and make the most of the extended opening times.

"It’s also a great opportunity for new traders to join the wonderful team in Northwich Market and establish their business.

"The council remains committed to Northwich Market and all of its markets across the borough."

Currently 10 traders make up the market, including an award-winning lady’s boutique, wool and haberdashery, pet foods, eggs, gifts, greeting cards, computer repairs, guitar tuition, school uniforms and workwear, a café, and an East Asian food stall opening in October.

Claire Forster, owner of the Style Hut lady’s boutique, said: “The new market will be an exciting addition to Barons Quay and The Style Hut is excited to move with the market into a new revitalised building with higher footfall and we look forward to learning more about the plans."

Andrea Leacy, owner of the Market Café, said: “We are really looking forward to moving to the new market in Barons Quay, this will enable our family business to move forward with longer trading hours and more footfall in a new location with improved modern facilities."

The new market will benefit from investment of around £1.8 million with bespoke designed fixtures and facilities to provide a significantly improved experience for customers and traders.

These will complement the existing retailers, leisure and food and drink options already in Barons Quay.

The council is working with all the existing traders to offer space for them in the new market to provide continuity and bring in new traders to ensure the market can expand and thrive in its new location.

Applications from new traders are also welcomed, and full support and mentoring is on offer to help new traders get up and running.

Contact markets@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk for more information.