New canopy trialled in bid to improve conditions in Preston Market Hall

Canopy prototype above one of the Market Hall walkways — The canopy prototype can be seen above one of the Market Hall walkways

A prototype section of a proposed canopy design has been temporarily installed in Preston’s Market Hall.

The installation follows Preston City Council‘s agreement for a major investment scheme to improve the conditions in the Market Hall.

The prototype will be part of the overall project, which will sit above the internal walkways between the stalls.

A spokesperson for the Council said: “This will improve the environment throughout the year and ensure it is more comfortable for customers and traders.

“The overall structure will be fabricated of steel frames, infilled with clear panels, in order to maintain the visual appearance of the underside of the original 1875 canopy.

“Timescales for this project are currently being planned with our tenants, but it is the Council’s intention to start as soon as possible.”

Neil Fairhurst, Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Customer Services at Preston City Council, said: “This is another step forward for the improvements agreed at Council for the Market Hall.

“Preston Markets is full of excellent products – freshly made food and drinks, accessories, produce, fresh meat and an amazing selection of cheese – and we need Prestonians to support these local businesses and enjoy what Preston Markets has to offer especially over the upcoming festive period.”

Sam Livesey, Chairman of the Traders Association at Preston Markets, said: “This prototype is a good first step in the Council’s solution to the current conditions in the Market Hall. The traders will be working with the Council to decide an installation plan that will cause the least disruption, while installing the new canopies as quickly as possible.

“People of Preston, shop local this Christmas and pick up your delicious festive food and presents from the amazing traders at Preston Markets.”

Have you seen the prototype? What did you think? Let us know in the comments.