Wigan’s new market will officially open next Spring following engagement with traders.
Wigan Council met with trader representatives yesterday (Tuesday 7 July) to provide an update on the new market, including how it will operate once open.
Wigan Market at Fettlers will open in Spring 2027, allowing time for the council and traders to shape a venue that supports existing businesses and offers the best possible visitor experience in the town centre. The timetable also means traders will have the opportunity to enjoy one final Christmas trading period in the current market before the new market opens.
Following the decision for the market to be operated directly by Wigan Council, additional work is now being undertaken to focus on developing an operating model that works for the people at the heart of the market.
This insight is now feeding into the final layout of the building’s internal design, ensuring the market’s long-standing businesses remain at the heart of one of the borough’s most significant regeneration projects.
Wigan Market forms the centrepiece of the wider Fettlers development and will bring the market back to the heart of Wigan town centre, creating a vibrant destination where people can shop, eat, meet and spend time together.
Councillor Dane Anderton, portfolio holder for economic development and regeneration at Wigan Council, said: “Wigan has been a market town for centuries and that heritage remains an important part of our identity. The new market will honour that tradition while creating something fit for future generations. By taking the time now to work closely with traders, we’re ensuring we deliver a market that everybody can be proud of from day one.
“We’ve listened carefully to what traders have told us. They want a market that works for them and their customers, and they want to make the move at the right time for their businesses. The additional time allows us to incorporate that feedback into the design while ensuring traders can benefit from the important Christmas trading period”
Once open, the new market will provide a modern, welcoming home for traditional market traders alongside complementary food, drink and independent retail offers. It will play a central role in attracting visitors into the town centre, supporting local businesses and strengthening Wigan’s proud market heritage.
