Preston refreshes markets team

Architecture and surveying practice Frank Whittle Partnership has been appointed as the lead consultant to take forward the development of Preston’s historic markets as part of the wider Markets Quarter project.

FWP won the contract in partnership with architect Greig & Stephenson.

The project will be supported by Preston-based companies Blezard, Morgan Martin and PWA Planning, and Wigan-based Sanderson Watts Associates.

IBI Group was previously the architect for the redevelopment of the listed 1875 market canopy in the city centre, before the project was retendered after the council announced that it would be increasing the amount of investment into the scheme.

The canopy restoration forms phase one of the Markets Quarter. Once complete, a new facility will be built under the canopy and traders currently occupying the indoor market. The move of the traders will allow for the demolition of the old market, and the site used for the construction of a cinema-led scheme which is being delivered by Muse Developments.

Muse is working with architect Benoy on the project.

A planning application for the 1875 market is due to be submitted in spring 2016.

Cllr John Swindells, deputy council leader, said: “This is a major investment and I’m confident we have got a great combination of local experts to lead the Preston Markets redevelopment. This was a tough contract to win, with a field of top architectural practices in the running.

“It is a true partnership and by that I mean traders, architects and the people of Preston. The response from traders to the draft scheme has been positive. We’ve captured the imagination and have the basis for a wholesale regeneration of Preston Markets.

“The markets are hugely important to Preston and attract thousands of customers every week. I am confident with the passion and good will of traders and expertise of our design team, we can deliver a market truly fitting for the city of Preston and one we can all be rightly proud of.”