Hyndburn cabinet extends rent relief for market traders ahead of Market Hall reopening
Zero charge maintained for temporary cabins until heritage building revamp is complete
Hyndburn Council's cabinet has agreed to extend the current rent and licence fee concessions for traders using temporary market cabins on the town square until the reopening of Accrington Market Hall.
The Grade-II heritage-listed Market Hall is set to reopen in November following an £11 million refurbishment, with construction expected to finish by mid-July.
Decision to support traders
During Wednesday night's cabinet meeting, councillors approved the continuation of the zero-rent agreement for market cabin traders, ensuring they remain on the town square without any rental charge until relocation.
Town centres boss Cllr Clare Pritchard emphasized the council's commitment to supporting temporarily relocated traders throughout the Market Hall redevelopment.
The council's report outlined the zero-charge allowance per calendar month for cabin rent and licence fees, although traders will continue to pay service charges and select associated costs.
To maintain support for traders, the extension might result in a loss of income worth approximately £2,930 per month.
Supporting OASST
Additionally, Hyndburn Council agreed to aid the Official Accrington Stanley Supporters Trust (OASST) by covering the monthly rent for their unit in the Arndale Centre, estimated at £275.41.
Cllr Zak Khan, leader of Hyndburn Council’s Conservative group, affirmed the decision as beneficial for business support and expressed hope that the Market Hall will reopen on schedule.
“This is the right thing to do to support businesses. I just hope the Market Hall now reopens on time,” Cllr Khan said.