Former market hall and theatre to be demolished

2 hours ago

News image — Barrow Market Hall closed suddenly in February leaving businesses without a place to trade

BBC The entrance to Barrow Market Hall which has a black fence in front of it. The roof is pointed and there is a large circular sign towards the top with a coat of arms and old lettering which reads 'Market Hall'. There is a sign stuck on the gate which has black and yellow tape surrounding it. There is a Herons shop to the right which multiple pictures of food on the side of the wall. — Barrow Market Hall closed suddenly in February leaving businesses without a place to trade

A former theatre and market hall closed due to issues with asbestos issues are to be demolished.

Barrow's Market Hall shut suddenly in February due to fears over asbestos and worsening leaks, with traders forced to move out without notice, while next door the events venue the Forum had similar issues and was shut in 2024.

While Westmorland and Furness Council owns both buildings, it said plans for replacement buildings was not its project but said it was working with partners to create "radical improvements in Barrow town centre".

Council leader Jonathan Brook said Barrow and its surrounding area "deserves a thriving theatre and arts venue".

Brook told BBC Radio Cumbria: "We are committed to delivering that, however we are not able to give a firm commitment to a replacement theatre because it is not in our give to do so."

A close-up of the closure sign which is surrounded by yellow and black tape and stuck on the white opening times sign on the black gate. The white sign reads 'Barrow Market Hall' with 'more value' and 'more choice' written on either side. The writing is too small to make out what it says on the closure sign. — An asbestos risk assessment was carried out on the Market Hall

A risk assessment by an asbestos contractor, dated 13 February, concluded the Market Hall should close "due to the building's condition seemingly worsening".

Brook said: "The report we had from the consultants indicated that upgrading and replacing the damaged structures and getting rid of all the asbestos was not a viable option.

He said it could cost as much or more than demolishing it.

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