Macclesfield Market Hall opens after major refurbishment

Cheshire East Council has officially opened the newly-refurbished Macclesfield Market Hall, marking a significant milestone in the town centre’s regeneration.

Grant funding of £2.4m from the government’s UKSPF has enabled the council to fulfil an ambitious vision to create a vibrant setting that champions independent retail, supports locally sourced produce and provides a welcoming environment for traders and visitors.

As part of the investment, the market hall has been extensively modernised, with new trading units, improved lighting, updated flooring and a redesigned layout that has created a fresher, more contemporary space for daily trading and events.

The space was also rebranded as Macclesfield Market Hall with signage installed throughout to reflect the new identity. Two artists – Peachzz and Tom Edwards – were commissioned to create striking artworks both inside and outside the building.

During the official opening event, guests were introduced to many of the traders and encouraged to try their produce and services with live music also provided. 

With the event falling in half term week, family fun was the order of the day with a treasure hunt for children and a drawing session provided by Marc Makes Comics, which was sponsored by Macclesfield Town Council.

Councillor Nick Mannion, leader of Cheshire East Council, who opened the event, said:

“My roots are well and truly in this town so seeing how this space has been completely transformed by this refurbishment brings me a great deal of satisfaction.

“I really enjoyed meeting some of the traders at the event and experiencing the welcoming nature of everyone there whether they had businesses, or like me, were visiting to get a flavour of the market.

“Our ambition was to build a market hall that brings together the best of our local businesses, shines a spotlight on fresh regional produce, and gives traders a vibrant hub. Having experienced it first hand, I feel we’ve achieved this.”

Interest from visitors has already grown, supported by the refreshed layout and improved facilities. The market now houses a wide range of independent traders, including food and drink, crafts, gaming, books, beauty and more.

Councillor Mick Warren, chair of Cheshire East Council’s economy and growth committee, said:

“The market hall has always been central to Macclesfield’s character, and this refurbishment gives it a much needed new lease of life. The council, traders and the community have worked together to create a brighter, more welcoming space. It’s great to see existing traders thriving and new businesses joining.”

The refurbishment of the Market Hall has been supported by Macclesfield Town Council, which helped fund the work to provide new toilet facilities for the public, which include a Changing Places Toilet.

Councillor Fiona Wilson, vice chair of the economy and growth committee, ward councillor for Macclesfield South and a Macclesfield town councillor, said:

“It’s fantastic to see the refurbished market being used and enjoyed. This is a really inclusive community space where local people can support local traders and the vitality of their town centre. 

“Both Cheshire East Council and Macclesfield Town Council want the town centre to thrive and work together collaboratively to make that happen. This project is a significant boost for the town centre, and I urge everyone to visit and support it.”

Independent businesses interested in trading from Macclesfield Market Hall are encouraged to get in touch by emailing: 

mmh@cheshireeast.gov.uk