PLANS for the much heralded £6 million Radcliffe Market and Museum have been unveiled for the first time.

Internationally acclaimed architect John Pawson revealed his detailed designs, displays and models for the proposed development in the new LinkIT Centre at Radcliffe Library last night (Thurs Nov 8).

Speaking beforehand Mr Pawson, who has designed landmark buildings in New York and Hong Kong International Airport, said: "The intention here is to create a landmark building of aesthetic distinction which will accommodate a range of diverse activities, realise the potential of the site's riverside aspect and form a key component of a larger initiative for the regeneration of Radcliffe town centre as a vibrant local entity and as a location of both national and international significance." In addition to housing both a market and a museum, the new architecture will incorporate space for both permanent and temporary exhibitions, a restaurant and caf, offices for council services, meeting rooms and a learning and community room. The design will also include a courtyard and riverside garden.

Mr Pawson explained: "Rather than isolate the various functions it will contain, the design sets out to establish relationships and resonances between them, in the process establishing a new model of cultural, educational, social and commercial activity."

The scheme, which is dependent on Bury Council attracting funding from government grants, National Lottery funding and support from the private sector, is the result of a period of extensive research and local briefing.