Working closely with client Hyndburn Borough Council and the Bid Team, we developed proposals for three projects which formed the basis of the LUF bid. These were Accrington Market Hall, Market Chambers and Burton’s Chambers.

The Market Hall will be refurbished and transformed into a food and drink destination for local people. Following a programme of client and stakeholder engagement, we developed high level proposals for external repairs and improvements and internal refurbishment works to the building.

External works include repair of the existing fabric, improvements to security and part removal of market stalls to create improved landscaping and external seating opportunities. Internally, our architectural and interior design teams have developed proposals for the aesthetic uplift of the market space – the proposed layout reduces produce market activity and accommodates a new food and beverage offer. Our design retains and celebrates the heritage features of the building, whilst proposing the introduction of modern industrial touches. The focus of the design, from materiality to lighting, is on ensuring the seamless transition from day to night as the building seeks to adapt from a daytime to an all-day facility.

Alongside the Market Hall, the Market Chambers building opposite would also be acquired, refurbished, and repaired – with the ultimate aim to transform it into a cultural, arts and heritage venue. The Art Deco Burton’s Chambers building, would also be purchase and restored to become a co-working space for businesses and events. Our team have developed proposals for fabric improvements and high-level layouts for both buildings.

It is hoped that the three projects will be the catalyst for kick-starting the wider transformation of Accrington town centre.