Morgan Sindall breaks ground on Accrington Town Square

The contractor’s North West team has started on site, after funding for the regeneration scheme was secured earlier this year.

As well as a successful bid for £20m to the Levelling Up Fund, additional matching contributions are being made by Lancashire Council and the UK Shared Prosperity Fund for the development.

The work includes the restoration of the Market Hall, Burtons Chambers and Market Chambers.

Hyndburn’s plans include turning the Market Hall into a food and drink destination, the conversion of Burton Chambers into a modern co-working space, and the repair and refurbishment of Market Chambers.

The authority is working towards creating a cultural and heritage venue.

Market traders have now moved out of the building and into new homes as work takes place.

The council says many have taken up residence in ‘Market on the Square’ – a temporary cabin set up on Accrington Town Square – and reported increased turnover since the move.

Morgan Sindall says it is aiming to retain and reuse original building materials wherever possible, also creating modern facilities which reduce operational carbon through the lifecycle of the scheme.

The groundbreaking event brought together partners from Morgan Sindall, Hyndburn Council, AEW Architects, and Hive Projects, to mark the milestone.

Ground breaking on Accrington Town Square’s regeneration. Credit: via Morgan Sindall

Simon Arnott, managing director of Morgan Sindall in the North, said: “Regeneration schemes such as Accrington Town Square are breathing new life into historic towns and neighbourhoods across the UK.

“As a contractor committed to sustainability and enhancing communities, we’re glad to get out on site, as well as continuing to develop our relationships with Hyndburn Town Council and its constituents to deliver high-quality facilities fit to serve its community for years to come.”

Mark Robinson, group chief executive of SCAPE, said: “Morgan Sindall has a fantastic track record of delivering high-quality, transformative projects through SCAPE which create local jobs, opportunities, and social value in the community.”

Cllr Mohammed Younis, portfolio holder for levelling up, added: “I am delighted to witness the official groundbreaking, which marks the start of work on these important projects.”