Frame up for Preston Market redevelopment

Structural steelwork for the redevelopment of Preston’s historic covered market has been completed by Border Steelwork Structures (BSS).

Working on behalf of main contractor Conlon Construction, BSS erected approximately 100t of steel to form new permanent stalls within the restored Victorian market.

Covering half of the covered market’s floor space, the new steel-framed stalls will be able to accommodate 32 traders.

The remainder of the floor space will be used for 52 temporary stalls or as an events space.

Frank Whittle Partnership Architect John Bridge said steel was chosen for its flexibility and ease with which it can form the cantilevering stall structures.

“Steel has also given us a contemporary feel within the restored Victorian wrought-ironwork of the old market building.”

The redevelopment of the covered market is the third phase of Preston’s much larger Market Quarter scheme. So far this has included, during phase 1 and 2, the redevelopment of the adjacent Fish Market and the restoration of the Covered Market’s 110m-long roof.

Two more phases are planned; phase four will consist of the demolition of the nearby multi-storey car park and market building. This will then free-up space for a fifth phase, consisting of a new steel-framed cinema, restaurant and retail complex.