Wigan Market at Fettlers: Frequently asked questions

Wigan Market at Fettlers: Frequently asked questions

What is the name of the new Market Hall?

The new Market Hall will be called Wigan Market at Fettlers and will be located within the new Fettlers neighbourhood in Wigan town centre.

As part of the wider transformation of the town centre, Wigan Market at Fettlers will build on the market's proud heritage while providing a modern destination for shopping, eating, socialising and supporting local businesses.

What is Fettlers?

Fettlers is a new neighbourhood in Wigan town centre that will bring together places to live, work, shop, eat and spend leisure time.

The development will include new homes, businesses, public spaces, leisure opportunities and Wigan Market at Fettlers, creating a vibrant destination at the heart of the borough.

When will Wigan Market at Fettlers open?

Wigan Market at Fettlers is expected to open in Spring 2027.

We'll continue to share updates and key milestones with traders, businesses, residents and visitors as the project progresses.

Where will Wigan Market at Fettlers be located?

The new Wigan Market will be at the heart of the Fettlers development, with entrances from Market Place, Market Street, and the new Fettlers public square. This central town centre located was suggested by traders when plans were initially developed.

Who will operate Wigan Market at Fettlers?

Wigan Market at Fettlers will be operated by Wigan Council.

Following the transfer of the market's operation to Wigan Council in April 2026, work has been underway to develop a market that supports local traders, attracts visitors and contributes to the continued success of Wigan town centre.

How is Wigan Council supporting existing market traders?

Existing traders are a valued part of Wigan Market's future and remain central to plans for Wigan Market at Fettlers.

Traders have been invited to an information event to begin the application process and have been given an exclusive one-month period to apply for units in the new Market Hall.

Wigan Council will continue to work closely with traders throughout the transition and provide updates as plans progress.

How many stalls will there be in the new Market Hall?

Work is currently underway to finalise the Market Hall's layout and ensure the best possible mix of units and trading opportunities.

While the final number of stalls has not yet been confirmed, Wigan Council is reviewing the design to maximise opportunities for traders wherever possible.

Further details will be shared once the design process has been completed.

Can new businesses apply for a unit in the new Market Hall?

Following the priority application period for existing traders, opportunities will be available for new businesses that complement the market offer and contribute to a diverse and vibrant destination for customers.

Anyone interested in trading at Wigan Market at Fettlers can register their interest using the Expression of Interest form.

Further information about available units and application opportunities will be shared as plans progress.

Will existing market traders have the opportunity to move into the new Market Hall?

Yes, existing traders have been given priority access to apply for units at Wigan Market at Fettlers and are an important part of the market's future.

Wigan Council is committed to working closely with traders throughout the process and ensuring they are kept informed as plans develop.

Why is a new Market Hall being built?

Wigan Market has been at the heart of the town centre for generations. The new Market Hall will provide a modern, high-quality space that supports traders, attracts visitors and strengthens the local economy.

Wigan Market at Fettlers will celebrate the market's heritage while creating new opportunities for businesses, residents and visitors.

Will Wigan Market remain open before Wigan Market at Fettlers opens?

Yes, the current market will continue to operate while work progresses on Wigan Market at Fettlers and will remain open until the new market opens.

What types of businesses will be located in Wigan Market at Fettlers?

Wigan Market at Fettlers will offer a mix of traders, retail, food, drink and service businesses, creating a diverse and attractive destination for customers.

The aim is to complement the existing market offer while introducing new businesses that enhance the overall visitor experience.

How can I find out about future trading opportunities?

Anyone interested in trading at Wigan Market at Fettlers can register their interest by completing the Expression of Interest form.

Registering your interest will ensure you receive information about future opportunities as they become available.

How will traders be selected?

Applications will be assessed against a range of criteria, including how businesses contribute to the overall market offer and customer experience.

Further information about the application and assessment process will be provided when opportunities become available.

How can I stay updated on the project?

Updates about Wigan Market at Fettlers will be shared through Wigan Council's communication channels and project updates.

Key information and milestones will also continue to be communicated directly to traders where appropriate.