WORK to remove asbestos from Barrow Market Hall has started after traders were moved to a temporary setup.

Asbestos removal firm Emchia has set up to start the work which is part of a wider multi-million invigoration of the market.

The harmful substance was found ahead of the major refurbishment with surveys finding there was asbestos that immediately needed to be removed.

A barrier has been placed around the market hall in front of Barrow Town Hall while the work takes place. 

The work is part of a £17.5 million government-funded scheme to reinvigorate the Market Hall, neighbouring arts and entertainment venue The Forum and the public realm that surrounds, with the council hoping it will attract more people into the town centre, bringing the community together and boosting the local economy.

The work is taking place after traders moved to refurbished units in the Mall, facing Dalton Road.

The remainder are being stationed in units within the market's former Meat Hall, although work is still taking place.

These traders are therefore in special units in the outdoor market on Portland Walk for the time being.

(Image: Google Maps) During the main refurbishment works on the Market Hall, the Meat Hall will remain open with access only from Dalton Road.

The new units opened for business August 12.

It is estimated that the work in the Market Hall will take two years to complete.

As well as transforming the market and The Forum, a Town Centre Community Hub will be created within the Market Hall which will offer a new refurbished space to showcase culture, activities and events, and provide meeting space.

The creation of a pocket park/outdoor events space off Dalton Road where three buildings were demolished will enable the delivery of a programme of events to encourage community participation and increase of the number of visitors to the town.

Monthly markets involving guest traders have been taking place.

Guest traders at the event last week included Christine’s Kitchen, Bellyboy Blacksmith, Baker’s Choice, Morecambe Festival Toys, South Lakes Honey Company and Poppy Box.