The latest step in the half-a-million pound refurbishment of an East Lancashire market has taken place with a new steel framework in place.

The framework, which will provide a sheltered seating zone at Haslingden Market, has been successfully installed.

Once complete it will create a sheltered space for visitors to eat food bought from the range of street food stalls at the market.

More work as part of the £500,000 renovation is continuing, which will see the floor being levelled and resurfaced to make the market accessible and safer, and the renovation and reopening of the public toilets.

How the renovated market will lookHow the renovated market will look (Image: Rossendale Council)

The trader communal area is also being upgraded to make the market space lighter and brighter, while new gates and railings are being installed at each end of the market.

An open-air area is also being created for music and drama performances, mini-festivals and artisan markets.

Councillor Adrian Lythgoe, lead member for environment and corporate services at Rossendale Council, and chair of the Haslingden 2040 Board, said: “I am delighted that work on the refurbishment of the market is now well underway.

"While there have been some unforeseen delays the new main contractor will complete the work by autumn."

The Haslingden ward councillor added: “Once reopened the market will offer local residents and visitors a fantastic social hub and bring extra life to the centre of town.”

Once the restoration is completed, a calendar of events will be arranged to celebrate the opening of the new market, which will include a young people's market.

The restoration of Haslingden Market is funded through £200,000 committed by Rossendale Council, and £300,000 from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.