Oldham's new market, the multi-million-pound development on Parliament Square, will open its doors to the public for the first time at 9am tomorrow. The venue, simply called 'The Market', is a key component of the town centre's £450 million regeneration and promises to transform the shopping landscape for local residents and visitors alike.

Photos have revealed the sleek interior of the new space, which will accommodate around 45 traders from the historic Tommyfield Market. The main trading area is located on the first floor, directly accessible from the Spindles shopping centre, ensuring seamless integration with existing retail. A standout feature is the grand staircase, which connects the ground and first floors while also serving as bleacher seating for diners and shoppers, creating a dynamic social space.

The scale of investment in the project is clear from the financial details. A Freedom of Information request has disclosed that the contractor contract for the market alone was valued at £38.2 million. In addition, the council received a £2 million grant from the government's community fund last year to support trader relocation, alongside a further £1 million to facilitate the move of outdoor traders to George Street, which is expected to be completed within the next twelve months.

This market is the latest milestone in a £450 million scheme aimed at completely revamping Oldham's town centre and reviving its high streets. However, the journey to opening has not been without challenges. The council announced an undetermined delay last year, which pushed back the planned move by six months, testing the patience of traders and shoppers. Nevertheless, the doors are now set to open, marking a new beginning.

Stallholders who spoke to the Local Democracy Reporting Service before the move shared their excitement for the new venue. They have called on the community to visit the market and show their support, emphasising that this is a crucial moment for the town centre's revival. Their positive outlook suggests they believe the new market will bring fresh energy to the area.

The grand opening tomorrow will feature a programme of family-friendly entertainment from 9am. Attendees can look forward to a performance by K-Pop Universe, a Taylor Swift tribute act, and the unique Granny Turismo – a group of mischievous grannies racing around on supersized shopping trollies. Children will be entertained with street plays, rides and arcades, balloon artists, crafts, and face painting, ensuring a fun day out for the whole family.

With its modern design and strategic location on Parliament Square, 'The Market' is poised to become a central hub for the community. The launch event celebrates this new chapter and invites everyone to experience what the market has to offer. As Oldham continues its town centre transformation, this market stands as a testament to the investment in the area's future.