The original market was at the time of the blaze under insured by the then Conservative administration and therefore they were unable to rebuild it.
The creation of a new Lancaster Market continued to be bedevilled by setbacks – to plans for a major shopping development (itself a victim of the 1980s ‘credit crunch’), relocation to the bus station and finally, the move to a building many always described as ‘not fit for purpose’.
In 2009/10, the market lost £461,000 and this was expected to rise to £492,000 in the next financial year.
The ill-fated market closed down for good not long after on September 10 2012.
Primark now occupies the former Lancaster Market building.
These pictures from our archives include ones of a hard fought campaign by traders to save their livelihood when closure of the market was threatened, as well as traders at their stalls and customers,
In case you missed them: Looking back: pictures remember Lancaster's much loved old market and the day it was destroyed by fire

1. Market memories
Supporters of Lancaster Market on a march from Lancaster to Morecambe Town Hall protesting over the market's planned closure. Photo: Garth Hamer

2. Market memories
Chairman of Lancaster Market Tenants Committee, Peter Corke, outside the market following news of its planned closure. Photo: Garth Hamer

3. Market memories
Lancaster market traders and supporters arrive at Morecambe Town Hall to present a petition against closure of the market, which had garnered more than over 13,000 signatures. Photo: Nigel Slater
