TRAFFIC will remain restricted in Apple Market Street and Market Street until demolition of the fire-damaged market building has taken place, Cheshire West and Chester Council has advised.

A notice issued by the council says traffic will be prohibited ‘to enable a safety area around the Northwich Market building’.

Parts of the building were demolished as the fire raged, to allow firefighters better access to the blaze.

Further unsafe elements of the structure have been demolished in line with insurers’ requests.

Now, the council is investigating the state of the building before any long-term decision is taken.

A spokesman added: “The council has acted in response to all of the instructions that we have received.”

Traders have been offered new units.