Plans to demolish Barrow Forum and market hall buildings
Traders have been told the entire market building will close
Last updated 17th Feb 2026
Plans to demolish the Forum and market hall buildings in Barrow-in-Furness have been put forward by Westmorland and Furness Council.
The council say assessments on the 55-year-old market hall and Forum buildings show they've reached 'end of life'.
They say repair works would be 'extensive and costly', even just to open them temporarily.
Plans to close the entire market building have also been brought forward due to leaks in the roof.
The news was broken to traders in the mall area today (17th February).
The council say support will be offered to them over the coming weeks.
A spokesperson said, "A sudden closure is never welcome, and we would like to provide assurance that this is not a decision taken likely."
The long term vision
Councillors say the 'Heart of Barrow' project is hoped to transform the town centre.
Cllr Helen Chaffey, Cabinet member for communities and culture, said: "The project to develop the long-term vision for the future of the town centre will continue to work closely with the community to ensure that the essential elements of the Forum and market offer – arts, culture, entertainment, small business support and retail – along with more housing and a cleaner, safer and healthier environment, will all form part of the plans.”
Cllr Tony Callister, Chair of Furness Locality Board, said: “We know these are big, bold decisions but we have a chance in a lifetime to transform our town and our town centre."