CLITHEROE’S 900-year-old market could be in line for a multi-million pound revamp.

And plans could include covering part of the site and adding some high-quality shops on the edges.

Ribble Valley Borough Council has asked Barnfield Construction Ltd to draw up redevelopment plans for the site in the centre of the town.

The Nelson-based firm has an exclusive six-month option to bring forward viable proposals for a vibrant hub to Clitheroe’s retail district.

The research will consider if redevelopment of the site is viable and, if so, what form it might take.

Ribble Valley Borough Council leader Stuart Hirst said he was delighted that, after many years and several disappointments, there seemed a realistic prospect of redeveloping the 80-stall market site.

The market dates from the Norman Conquest in the 12th Century and was redeveloped in 1995.

A Clitheroe masterplan produced five years ago suggested a major upgrade of the site and attracting stores such as Marks and Spencers to the town to boost retail spending.

Clitheroe Mayor Kevin Horkin said: “I have a stall on the market on a Saturday and, at most, 45 to 50 pitches are in use. It is under-utilised by a third.

“The company is looking at how to develop the main market at the cobbled bullring, the adjoining car park and nearby land.

“What is important is any development maintains the site as a market and is in keeping with Clitheroe as a market town.”

Market butcher and traders’ spokesman Stuart Gradwell said: “We are in favour of anything which improves the market, makes it a vibrant shopping hub and increases footfall.”

Coun Hirst said: “Barnfield Construction has a superb track record in schemes of this nature.

“This is an exciting opportunity for us.”