Preston’s covered Victorian markets

Budding architects of the future are to be given the chance to have a say on creating Preston’s new-look outdoor market.

A number of architecture students from the University of Central Lancashire are being invited to a one-day design workshop.

The intense ‘Design Charette’ looks at a new design for the market’s outdoor stalls.

Preston City Council wants to demolish the current indoor market, car park and Lancastria house to make way for a new cinema and restaurant complex.

As part of the proposals the existing indoor market stalls would move to new positions in a revamped outdoor covered market.

Working with architects

Frank Whittle Partnership (FWP), who were appointed as consultants and architects for the Markets scheme after it was re-tendered in Autumn last year, want to get Preston students to help inform their design decisions.

John Bridge, FWP project architect, said: “We are certainly looking forward to seeing what the students come up with on the day. It’s going to be very interesting to experience a day on the market which will help the students to design and make prototypes that respond to trader’s needs.

“As well as a research and development exercise, by talking to and listening to traders, students will get a real handle on what is needed to deliver stalls the businesses need to operate successfully on the outdoor market.

“As part of the overall process we are really listening to what the traders have to say and what their requirements are so this information can be used positively moving forward.

“We will also look closely at the designs and concepts that emerge from the exercise to see what elements and ideas we can adopt and use in our eventual plans.

“It should prove to be an invaluable event for both our design team and for the students as they look to gain experience of working on real life architectural projects.”

Funding for scheme

The city council met behind closed doors on Tuesday evening to discuss the state of play with the Markets scheme, and approve further funding for the next stage of the project.

Councillor Peter Rankin, leader of the city council, said: “We’re determined to create something really special for Preston and this is another indication of the partnership approach which will deliver a successful market regeneration vision for the traders and the people of the city.

“The aim is to deliver a market truly fitting for the city of Preston and one we can all be rightly proud of.”

The design day, which is to take place in late January, comes as work on restoring Preston’s grade II listed Fish Market canopy begins from Monday 18 January.

What do you think of the proposal for the Markets? What would you like to see happen? Let us know in the comments below