The Barnstaple Pannier Market is set to celebrate its official reopening on Friday, 24 November after undergoing extensive refurbishment works as part of North Devon Council's Market Quarter regeneration project.

Having partially opened its doors in August, the market is now fully reopen and welcomes residents, visitors and local businesses to join in a celebration of this monumental achievement. The ceremony kicks off at 2pm, with the public being invited to come along to support local traders and explore the diverse array of goods, before strolling through the market and enjoying exhibitions in the revamped Corn Store.

The celebration will be accompanied by the melodic notes of acoustic live music, creating a vibrant atmosphere for all attendees. To add to the experience, a variety of refreshments and a seating area will be available.

The pinnacle of the event will be the ribbon-cutting ceremony at 3pm. Guests, including the Leader, Deputy Chair and Deputy Chief Executive of the council, Deputy Mayor, the Chairman of Traders, a respected long-standing trader, Selaine Saxby MP, and members of the Market Quarter project team and contractors will all be in attendance.

Chair of North Devon Council, Councillor Julie Hunt, says: "I invite the community to join us for the official opening of the newly refurbished Barnstaple Pannier Market. Explore the market's renewed charm and celebrate this special occasion. Join us at 3pm for the ribbon cutting ceremony, marking a new chapter for our beloved market."

Lead Member for Economic Development and Regeneration at North Devon Council, Councillor Malcolm Prowse says:  "Join us in celebrating the official opening of the Barnstaple Pannier Market. Come and explore the transformed space, support your brilliant local traders, and be part of this memorable moment for Barnstaple. Your presence on 24 November will contribute to the success of our shared vision for a thriving town centre. I hope to see you there!"

The refurbishment of the Pannier Market was made possible thanks to funding from the Government's Future High Streets Fund programme. Barnstaple’s bid for funding was developed following consultation with local people and the business community, and sought to enhance both the quality of the town centre experience and the variety of offer. The council's bid was successful, with £6.5m received from the Government, and £4.4m match funding provided by the council. 

In addition to the works on the Pannier Market, the funding will cover three other initiatives in the town centre; the redevelopment of 36 and 37 Boutport St, improvements to the Queen Street car park, and the permanent pedestrianisation of Butchers Row and Cross Street.

The completion of the Pannier Market works marks a significant milestone in the town's regeneration. As the first of four town centre regeneration initiatives to reach completion, the market has been repaired, redecorated and transformed into a flexible space suitable for hosting a dynamic range of markets, cultural events, and community gatherings.

For in-depth information about the Market Quarter Project, visit: www.barnstaplemarketquarter.co.uk.

Stay updated with the latest news by following the council’s social channels and Barnstaple Pannier Market’s Facebook page.