Accrington, a once-thriving market town in the United Kingdom, is grappling with a significant decline as it undergoes a major redevelopment project. The initiative aims to rejuvenate the town, which has seen a marked increase in empty shop fronts and reduced foot traffic. According to local traders, the ongoing construction has disrupted business, leading to concerns about the future of the town’s commercial viability.
The redevelopment project is described as a multi-million pound investment, which includes the refurbishment of the historic market hall. According to local trader David Robertshaw, who operates an egg stall, the project is crucial for revitalizing community interest. “It’s many millions of pounds. The market hall’s being refurbished and it’s due to reopen in November 2023,” he stated while gesturing towards the scaffolding surrounding the site. Despite the promise of a revitalized market, Robertshaw noted that the current situation is challenging. “Footfall is very slow at the moment due to the refurbishment,” he added.
Local fishmonger Stephen Bramwell, who has operated his family business for half a century, expressed apprehension about the redevelopment. “We’re treading water like the majority,” he remarked. Bramwell has witnessed the decline firsthand, attributing it to factors such as increasing online shopping and competition from nearby retail hubs like Manchester and Blackburn. He emphasized the need for investment but voiced concerns about the financial management of the redevelopment. “The market hall is a beautiful building, but the money that’s been squandered, we’re talking millions,” he stated.
Residents also share a sense of nostalgia for the town’s past vibrancy. Felicity Reed, a 68-year-old shopper, lamented the loss of significant stores such as Marks & Spencer and Woolworths, which she believes contributed to the decline of the town’s commercial atmosphere. “There’s lots and lots of empty stores,” she said, reflecting on how shopping habits have shifted. Many residents, including Reed, now travel to nearby towns for their shopping needs.
The generational divide in perspectives on the town’s vitality is evident. Tommy Franks, 82, recalls the bustling days of the 1960s, while his great-granddaughter, Ruby Pilkington, 17, noted that young people tend to avoid the town centre. “We usually go to Burnley,” she explained, underscoring a shift in social habits among younger residents.
Despite the challenges, there are signs of hope. Some areas of Accrington, such as Abbey Street, continue to attract younger crowds in the evenings with bars and restaurants. This mixed response reflects a community at a crossroads, where redevelopment could either lead to renewal or further decline.
Hyndburn Council, responsible for the redevelopment, has expressed commitment to transforming Accrington into a vibrant destination once again. A spokesperson stated, “Accrington Market is one of our town’s most treasured landmarks, and this redevelopment is about giving it the future it deserves.” They emphasized that the project aims to strengthen community ties and support local businesses. The council is optimistic that as the project progresses toward completion in 2026, residents will begin to see positive changes.
As Accrington navigates its redevelopment, local traders remain cautiously hopeful. “It’s a little bit up in the air at the moment,” Robertshaw said, reinforcing the sentiment that the success of the redevelopment will ultimately determine the town’s future. If the revitalization efforts succeed, there is hope that the crowds will return, breathing new life into a town that has faced significant challenges in recent years.
