Local restaurateur to lead new era for Accrington Market

A well-known local hospitality figure has been appointed, following an open recruitment process, to help lead the next exciting chapter in the transformation of Accrington town centre. Paul Fox, owner of the award-winning Crafty Fox on Abbey Street, has been named Town Centre Venue Manager, with his role beginning as preparations continue for the highly anticipated reopening of Accrington Market in November 2026. Paul will also manage the Town Hall when it returns to Council management next April.

The appointment marks another significant step forward in the wider regeneration of the town centre and the revival of Accrington’s most iconic buildings.

Accrington Market traders have continued serving the community from cabins in the Town Square while major restoration and redevelopment work has taken place behind the scenes. The Market Hall’s Victorian exterior has now been fully restored, safeguarding the historic building for future generations, while work continues internally to create a vibrant, modern destination that still celebrates its heritage and character.

When the doors reopen, Accrington Market will combine traditional market shopping with exciting new food, drink and social experiences – creating a welcoming community hub at the heart of the town.

Paul Fox is already a familiar face to many across Hyndburn. Before moving into hospitality, Paul ran The Attic music venue, which hosted more than 1,500 live bands over the years. During lockdown, Paul transformed a former building on Abbey Street into The Crafty Fox, which has since become one of the town centre’s most popular dining venues.

Known for championing local suppliers and fresh produce, Paul has built a strong reputation for quality, community focus and creating welcoming spaces – values that align closely with the future vision for Accrington Market and the Town Hall.

Paul said: “I love this town and everything the market means to local people. This is about creating somewhere people feel proud of again – a place to shop, eat, meet and spend time together. The Market Hall has such an important place in Accrington’s story, and I’m really excited to be part of its future and in the potential of the Town Hall as a vibrant entertainment venue.”

Hyndburn Council Leader, Cllr Munsif Dad, commented on the appointment. He said, “We were looking for someone with a strong track record in developing venues and Paul certainly has lots of experience, so it’s great to have him on board!

“We are still finalising plans and looking for additional traders to join Accrington Market when it reopens, and if there are interested parties they should contact [email protected]”

The reopening of Accrington Market will see favourite traders return alongside new independent businesses, food and drink operators and community-focused events and activities. Further updates on the reopening and future plans for Accrington Market will be shared in the coming months.