This project required the replacement of Blackburn’s crumbling 1960’s Market Hall which housed 120 Tenants. Appraisal confirmed the most cost effective solution was to relocate into a new extension to Blackburn Shopping Centre. The Client brief required a full specification for new stallage, M&E services, counters and back of house facilities. Layout was based on research amongst European Markets to ensure their best features were incorporated and subsequent procurement OJEU-compliant.

Fresh food is the anchor. A rigorous equipment selection process ensured display systems were suitable for the demanding environment of a Market. Because equipment is rentalised the minimisation of service charges and interchangeability between uses were key concerns but overcome by rigorous equipment testing which specified the use of common components. Energy efficiency was a particular concern. Each stall was sub-metered for individual consumption with common extract specified to enable heat recovery to an LPHW underfloor heating system. Particular attention was given to maintaining sightlines across the sales floor.

Fresh food uses have direct access to back of house food preparation areas and cold storage. Island stalls for non-food use have limited height displays and external glazing ensures sightlines from the pavement through the sales floor. An escalator link delivers shoppers directly from the Shopping Centre above and an anchor F&B Foodcourt offers shared seating. Ambient storage for dry goods is provided in the back of house and stalls equipped with lighting colour-balanced to their use.

The appraisal, design and equipment selection were completed and Tenants relocated with continuity of trade. Upon completion the project was awarded the NABMA ‘Best UK Indoor Market’ prize.