BARROW Market Hall has welcomed the announcement of £16m funding for its redesign.

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak made the announcement as he delivered his Autumn Budget to the House of Commons on Wednesday afternoon.

Ann Smith said: "Good idea. However, totally in the wrong place. This area doesn't get the sun. In the height of summer the town hall masks the sun, so you'll be in the dark.

"What's needed is for the car park to the back of the town hall to be removed. Let them use the multiple storey car park.

"Then, redesign this area into the focal point and community area of the town.

"Barrow town centre has no central point to meet and greet."

Wilson Kay said: "The council would be better off turning from the Preston Street club down to Abbey Road into a retail park and then people would use the town centre as well as the retail park.

"It's not working as it is, that's for sure."

Barrow Market Hall were delighted by the announcement.

They said: "This is the news we’ve been waiting so patiently for. Well done to everyone who’s worked tirelessly to secure the funding for the future prosperity of our town centre and much loved market hall.

"We proudly celebrated 50 Golden Years in June, our traders and the market hall team have remained positive and loyal throughout that time.

"Now, we have a whole new future that’s focused on local independent traders and businesses.

"The market hall is the reason to come to town, the big high street names are sadly a thing of the past. The local independent business is king of the high street once again. Onwards and upwards for Barrow Market Hall and our High Street."

Jennifer Smith said: "I think things have to start somewhere, hopefully it will expand.

"Wishing them all the best."