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Bury's New GBP5 Million Food Market 'The Source' to Revitalize Town Centre

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/04 .. market-the-source-to-revitalize-town-centre.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Wednesday, February 4th 2026 at 15:28 GMT by Manchester Evening News
      Locales: Greater Manchester, North West, UNITED KINGDOM

Bury, UK - February 4th, 2026 - Bury is on the cusp of a culinary and economic revitalization with the imminent opening of 'The Source,' a new GBP5 million food market poised to become the heart of the town centre. After a resounding public vote, 'The Source' triumphed over 'The Borough' and 'Borough Hall,' signifying strong community investment in the project and a collective vision for Bury's future. Construction is slated for completion in early 2026, promising a fresh and vibrant alternative to the existing Friday market, which it will replace.

But 'The Source' is far more than just a new market; it's a central pillar of the ambitious GBP41 million Bury Townscape Heritage Project, generously supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. This larger initiative aims to breathe new life into Bury's historic town centre, preserving its unique character while simultaneously attracting visitors and boosting the local economy. The market's design consciously acknowledges and celebrates Bury's rich food heritage, aiming to showcase the best of local produce and culinary talent.

The new market will house 30 stalls, providing crucial trading space for local food businesses, ranging from established producers to emerging artisan food entrepreneurs. Beyond simple retail, 'The Source' will feature a fully equipped demonstration kitchen, envisioned as a hub for cooking classes, workshops, and live culinary events. This interactive element is designed to engage the community, foster food literacy, and draw in a wider audience. A dedicated cafe will offer visitors a comfortable space to relax and enjoy the market's offerings, encouraging longer visits and repeat patronage.

Councillor Charlotte Briggs, cabinet member for communities and facilities, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, "This is a really exciting development for Bury, and it's fantastic that the public have had a say in naming it. 'The Source' is a great name that really captures the essence of what the market will be all about - a place where people can come to discover and enjoy the best of Bury's food." The public engagement in the naming process highlights the council's commitment to community-led regeneration and underscores the importance of local voices in shaping the future of Bury.

The broader Bury Townscape Heritage Project extends beyond 'The Source.' It encompasses the restoration of key historic buildings within the town centre, improvements to public spaces, and initiatives to enhance the overall visitor experience. The project recognises the vital link between heritage preservation and economic development, believing that a thriving town centre needs to both honour its past and embrace innovation. The project organisers believe that by creating a more attractive and vibrant town centre, they can increase footfall, attract investment, and create new job opportunities.

The decision to replace the traditional Friday market with a modern, purpose-built facility reflects a strategic shift towards creating a year-round destination for food lovers. While the Friday market holds a special place in Bury's history, its seasonal nature and limited infrastructure have hampered its potential for growth. 'The Source' aims to overcome these limitations, offering a consistent and appealing experience for visitors regardless of the weather or time of year.

Local business owners are already expressing optimism about the potential impact of 'The Source.' Many anticipate increased exposure for their products, access to a wider customer base, and opportunities to collaborate with other food businesses. The project also includes provisions for supporting start-up food businesses, providing them with affordable stall space and mentorship opportunities. This focus on entrepreneurship is expected to further diversify Bury's food scene and create a more vibrant and dynamic marketplace.

The anticipated completion of 'The Source' marks a significant milestone in Bury's ongoing regeneration journey. The project, years in the making, demonstrates a long-term commitment to investing in the town's future and creating a thriving community for generations to come. The council and project stakeholders are confident that 'The Source' will not only be a popular destination for food enthusiasts but also a catalyst for broader economic and social benefits for the town of Bury and the surrounding region.