Plans for a wholesale revamp of Rawtenstall Market - bringing food traders "in from the cold" to create a city-style indoor food hall - look impressive on the surface. But not everyone is happy.
The new plans would prevent stall holders from selling alcohol - and also from providing a takeaway service. Some of objectors add that there has not been enough consultation and that the market research has only extended to trips to Manchester and Altrincham which have a different customer base to Rawtenstall.
Stall holder Ryan Murphy, owner of In The Bag Bagels, says the plans could ruin his business. In his official response to the plans, he said: "Rossendale Council claims our views have been taken on board. But how can this be so when no one has asked my opinion? The only people the council should be talking to are the inside and outside traders, because they are the only ones encouraging people to visit.
Vincent Murphy added: "The only research we keep getting told about by the management team is a day trip at Mackie Mayor in Manchester and Altrincham Market. That's it. Rawtenstall is not Manchester. It's not Altrincham or even Bury, Accrington or Burnley. Comparing Rawtenstall to all these towns is laughable. What may work in other towns, in my opinion, is sure to fail in Rawtenstall.
Martin White said: "I think the overall market plan is great. But moving food vendors inside and pushing others outside is ludicrous. The market's outdoor food offering is so popular because it is unique." A council spokesperson said: "Throughout this process, we have consistently kept traders informed and actively listened to their feedback. The majority are on-board and looking forward to the new opportunities the redevelopment will offer.