Work has recently started on phase two of a project to restore Stockport’s Victorian Covered Market Hall.

Lead consultant, Manchester-based architects Buttress Fuller Alsop Williams, have worked for Stockport Council to restore the Grade II Listed building and to vastly improve the facilities offered.
Market traders have now moved into new stalls following the completion of phase one of the £1.7 million project.

Work has been split into two phases to enable the market to continue trading throughout the project which has included restoration and repair of the external envelope of the market hall.

Frances Armitage-Smith, project architect, said: “Internally, the new layout to the central area of the building has improved circulation and created a brighter space with enhanced views through the building. The details of the Victorian design of the building are also more visible thanks to the full restoration and redecoration of the cast iron, timber and glass structure.

“New market stalls in the centre of the market have been designed, taking precedent from original stalls that have been restored.

“Phase two concerns the east end of the building. The key feature is the central, historic stall which will remain in situ and be restored. Other features will include a new Yorkstone floor with underfloor heating system as well as improved facilities for customers including a disabled toilet and an open area for events and exhibitions.”

Glazed external panels have been inserted at street level to the north and west elevations and these connect the inside of the market to its immediate environment and strengthen the aesthetic of the regenerated area.

Cafes are intended for the perimeter of the market hall with dedicated seating areas looking out onto The Front.

Councillor Kevin Hogg, Executive Member for Regeneration, at Stockport Council, said: “This week marks a major milestone in the transformation of Stockport’s historic Covered Market Hall. We are now six months into the ten-month project and it is great to see traders making the most of the newly refurbished stalls. Once the full redevelopment is complete, the Hall will provide a fully modernised and functional trading space with an interesting and vibrant new community area.”

The project is due for completion in November 2008.

Email: hunter@paversmith.co.uk