A council is looking for a new contractor to complete the redevelopment of Haslingden Market after work deadlines were “not being met” by the previous team.

Rossendale Council said it has received “a number of enquiries” related to the development works on Haslingden Market.

A spokesperson said it “made a decision to serve notice” on the current contractor “due to project timescales for the completion of works not being met”.

The new market area will have a vibrant ‘flexible area’ for multiple usesThe new market area will have a vibrant ‘flexible area’ for multiple uses (Image: Rossendale Council)

The council wants to reassure the public, and market traders, that the situation is being “managed prudently” adding the contractor has only received payment for the work that has been completed.

A spokesperson said the initial contractor was found through a “rigorous” and “transparent” procurement process.

A council spokesperson said: “We have received a number of enquiries regarding the works to develop Haslingden Market.

“Unfortunately, the council has had to make a decision to serve notice on the current contractor for these works, due to project timescales for the completion of works not being met.  The council is currently in the process of appointing a new contractor.

Diggers start redevelopment work at Haslingden MarketDiggers start redevelopment work at Haslingden Market (Image: NQ)

 “We want to reassure residents and traders that this situation has been managed prudently.  The contractor has only received payment for work that has been completed. 

“It is important to highlight that the appointment of the contractor took place through a rigorous and transparent tendering and procurement process, in full compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements.

“The council remains committed to the successful completion of the market improvements, which will continue following the appointment of the new contractor.”

Plans to improve Haslingden Market were approved by Rossendale Council’s planning committee last year, with work scheduled to start by the end of March 2024.

At the time, it was hoped the £500,000 redevelopment would be complete by May 27.

Rossendale Council is spending £200,000 on the Haslingden work and the remaining £300,000 will come from the government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund

According to the council, this development includes creating a sheltered seating area, levelling and resurfacing the floor to make it safe and accessible, renovating the reopening the public toilets, improving the trader communal area to make the space fit for purpose, and making the market space lighter, brighter and safer. 

In April, pictures emerged of diggers starting redevelopment work at the market.