Shoppers flood to Blackburn Market

4th July 2011

Shoppers flood to new market ahead of next week's official opening

With only one week to go until its official launch, Blackburn with Darwen Council can reveal 13,000 people per day are visiting Blackburn’s new £8m Market.

Proving an instant hit with shoppers, thousands have packed out the new market since it opened its doors all there to sample the new ‘Continental’ style market with its high quality food and non-food offer.

Taking place on Saturday, July 9, from 9am-4pm the official launch will star celebrity chef, Nigel Howarth – a Michelin Star chef and star of the BBC's Great British Menu and Saturday Kitchen.

The Bee Radio’s roadshow will be on hand to provide music and entertainment and there will be family activities including face painting, clowns and dancing.

With 86 stalls now signed up: 15 food, 48 non-food, eight cafes, nine serviced food stalls and six mini-shops, the new market has been a hive of activity.

The Council is continuing to interview potential new stallholders.

Councillor Dave Harling, Executive Member for Regeneration, said: "It’s fantastic to see so many people continuing to use the new market. It has been a resounding success so far. The official launch will be the icing on the cake. I encourage people to come to the event and celebrate the new market and its truly excellent range of goods and traders all offering a friendly, attentive service."

Nigel Howarth said: "I am delighted to be part of the official opening. The market offers a great platform for our regional producers, growers and suppliers to showcase their great products. Pennine Lancashire offers some of the best produce in the North West and it is only right that Blackburn Market continues to be the hub of the community. I look forward to the event on July 9."