Preston’s Indoor Market

The contract to oversee the development of Preston Markets has been awarded to a Preston firm.

A multi-million pound redevelopment of the markets, which includes demolition of the current Indoor Market, car park and Lancastria House, is to be carried out by the Frank Whittle Partnership.

Architects are currently drawing up detailed plans for how the new markets will look in the covered Victorian markets – as well as the city council’s intention to have a new cinema and restaurants complex on the site of the former indoor market.

Traders, many of whom have voiced their anger at the plans, are currently being consulted with by the city council as the architects begin to draw up their proposals.

Martin Whittle, partner at FWP, said: “We are delighted to be working with Preston City Council and IBI Taylor Young on this high-profile project.

“All parties have recognised how important a modern, vibrant market can be as an economic driver for retail and tourism.

“Many thriving cities use a refurbished or new market to attract visitors and bring local people into the city centre.

“At FWP, we have a strong track record in the retail, leisure and tourism sectors that will bring added value to this contract and help to ensure delivery is on time and to budget.

“Our local knowledge will also help as we fully understand, and are playing a significant part in, the ongoing and much-needed regeneration of Preston.”

No timeline has been given for when plans are to be submitted for the new market or cinema complex.

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