Bury Market unveils new outdoor canopies – a bold step in its £33m transformation

Bury Council and traders at Bury’s world-famous market have marked a major milestone with the completion of striking new oversailing canopies above the outdoor market.

Part of a £33 million regeneration scheme, the steel-and-timber canopies were finished 10 weeks ahead of schedule – just in time for the busy festive trading period.

The new canopy structures not only enhance the visibility of the market but also provide much-improved all-weather protection for traders and visitors, ensuring a better experience year-round.

Installed by main contractor VINCI Building over a period of 12 months, the works were carefully programmed to allow market traders to continue trading throughout the fit-out. VINCI is also delivering the other major element of the scheme – a new flexi hall. This exciting addition will blend and enhance the market offer with entertainment, live shows, and extra food and drink options.

The £33m regeneration scheme is funded by the UK Government (£20m) and Bury Council (£13m).

Councillor Eamon O’Brien, Leader of Bury Council and cabinet member for strategic growth, said: “Bury Market is a historic and much-loved part of our town, and this multi-million-pound investment will ensure it thrives for generations to come.

“We know people cherish the market’s unique character, and that’s not changing. It will remain the lively, bustling destination that locals and visitors adore, while also attracting new audiences and creating an even more prosperous future.”

Following completion of the new market canopies, construction of the new flexi hall will continue, and public realm improvements will also begin. The scheme is anticipated to be fully completed by mid-2026.

More multi-million-pound investment for Bury town centre is also on the way through the Greater Manchester Good Growth Fund, which will drive growth, create employment, and improve connectivity, here in Bury and across Greater Manchester. Bury borough projects include:

• £80m transformation of Bury Interchange into an integrated transport hub (joining up bus, tram, and active travel routes, with the ambition to make it the first operationally carbon-neutral transport interchange in Greater Manchester).
• Transformation of Prestwich Village centre, including over 200 new homes.
• Unlocking the Northern Gateway employment site to create 20,000 new jobs.

Councillor Charlotte Morris, cabinet member for culture, economy and skills, said: “Everyone visiting Bury Market this festive season will be able to experience the new canopies for themselves, while also enjoying everything that makes the market world-famous.

“This is just the beginning – with the flexi hall and wider town centre improvements on the way, we’re creating a destination that celebrates Bury’s heritage while embracing an exciting future for our traders, visitors, and local economy.”

To find out more about regeneration across the Bury borough, visit www.bury.gov.uk/regeneration. For more about Bury market, visit www.burymarket.com