The transformation of Earlestown Market Square is getting underway this month (January 2026).
Main contractor, Eric Wright Group, has already completed enabling works to prepare the site for full construction, including surveys and trial holes, the removal of some street furniture and trees, and preparing the Market Chambers building to be used as contractor site accommodation.
Next, the market will be temporarily relocated along Market Street to allow the next phase of work to begin. This will allow Earlestown’s Friday Retail Market and Saturday Flea Market will continue as usual, before permanent relocation back to the reimagined Market Square at the earliest opportunity. The new timescales were agreed after feedback from traders, who were concerned about the move happening before the busy-pre Christmas period.
This landmark regeneration forms part of a long-term programme being delivered by St Helens Borough Council and ECF – a partnership between Homes England, Legal & General and Muse – backed by £20m from the Government’s Levelling Up Fund and £8m match funding from the council.
The improvements will see Earlestown’s historic Market Square enhanced into a high-quality, flexible public space designed to support the town for generations to come. A new permanent canopy, inspired by the nine arches of the Sankey Viaduct, will provide sheltered trading areas while also creating a venue that can host a wide variety of public events year-round.
Meanwhile, HH Smith & Sons continues work on the Grade II listed Earlestown Town Hall, with refurbishment and extension works due for completion by Summer 2026.
The projects are part of a 20-year regeneration plan being delivered by ECF in partnership with St Helens Borough Council, creating successful and sustainable town centres in Earlestown and St Helens.
Cllr Kate Groucutt, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member – Business and Inclusive Growth, St Helens Borough Council, said: “Market Square is central to the life of Earlestown, and this project will create a high-quality, vibrant space that supports both local businesses and community events. We are committed to keeping residents and traders closely involved throughout, and it is important that their feedback is listened to. The formal appointment of Eric Wright Group marks an important step in delivering this once in a generation project and I look forward to seeing main construction works beginning on site in the New Year.”
Matt Whiteley, Senior Development Manager at ECF, said: “The appointment of Eric Wright Group is an exciting moment for Earlestown and we can’t wait for work to begin in earnest in 2026. This latest milestone shows that our plans are becoming reality, and we’re another step closer to creating a town centre that is welcoming and sustainable for the long term.”
Paul Corner, Senior Project Manager for Eric Wright Group, said: “We’re pleased to have assisted with the detailed design, further site investigation and clearance works completing the enabling works ahead of commencing the full construction of onsite operations from January 2026.
“We’re keen to build on the established lines of communication and look forward to continue face to face dialogue with all stakeholders as we progress through the works.”
David Baines, Member of Parliament for St Helens North, said: “This is another step forward in the realisation of our exciting plans to regenerate Earlestown. Major projects like this don’t happen overnight and they’re the result of a lot of hard work by many people and organisations working together. I’d like to thank all involved, and especially pay tribute to stallholders, businesses and the public of Earlestown for their patience and support. I have no doubt that when complete the work will make the whole town proud.”