Whilst at FWP (2015-2018), John Bridge was appointed Project Architect for the Lead Consultancy on the 1924 Grade II Old Fish Market restoration project, the 1875 Grade II Covered Market and finally the New Build Project to construct a contemporary New Market Hall with public realm / external works improvements and a unique and contemporary Box Market. The council recognised the need to activate the Market Quarter, and the FWP team (led by JB) successfully brought this to fruition.
John experienced first-hand how the markets operate and how they require a particular skill set to undertake a successful restoration and redevelopment going forward. Undertaking invaluable primary investigation and invasive assessment of historic fabric along with working alongside specialist metal workers Calibre and Structural Engineer Clancy Consulting & SWA Consulting.
John understood the value in consultation with the market traders, general public, Councillors and Local Business in order to obtain everyone’s views and wishes for the project. Understanding the operations of the market and the sensitivities of continued service and public relations was key.
It was very important to listen and understand everyone’s needs, from the trader who sells books on a stall outdoors, to a butcher who requires a certain route/access to their stall for loading, to the political officers (Councillors) who required verbal and written consultation in order to promote and support the Market.
Legislative consultation was indeed a requirement, working with the Preston City Council Planning Department and Conservation Officer, key principles on the canopies/buildings constraints and opportunities where developed. This dialogue was supported by consultation with Historic England too, whose comments provided support and valuable insight into our proposals on how we wished to respond to the listing status of the market canopies.
Various consultation events where held with the Market Indoor and Outdoor Traders, as well as old and new businesses wishing to progress to the new Market Facilities.
A strong series of Public Consultation Events were also held, in collaboration with another team too, who were in charge of the New Cinema and Restaurant Scheme. Therefore, joined up thinking, commentary and indeed note taking was in order. To ensure the response to the consultation event was substantial and robust. Feedback documents where then prepared for review and the refinement of the designs ahead of Planning Submission.