Accrington Victorian Market Hall

Accrington Market Hall is a splendid Victorian building, constructed in 1869 and redolent of civic pride and the benefits of commerce. But after 140 years a backlog of modernisation and repairs had built-up to the point where Quarterbridge was commissioned by Hyndburn Borough Council to produce a Business Plan that made good the structure and modernised stalls to ensure a sustainable future.

Roof repairs were undertaken first, then unused storage rooms at balcony-level were converted into an Enterprise Haven for start-up businesses. Conversion was supported by grant assistance from the Local Enterprise Growth Initiative channelled through the inter-council agency: Elevate East Lancs. The balcony kiosks are now marketed to Arts & Crafts-type uses in partnership with the 'Creative Lancashire' initiative of Lancs CC.

Quarterbridge worked closely throughout with English Heritage to develop a design that respected the historic structure but enabled stalls to be modernised to today's requirements. The original stone slab floor was restored and new stalls built across the sales floor, adaptable for serve-over, walk-through or self-serve sales. The market hall is now wired for high-speed broadband to enable EFT and online sales and Hyndburn Enterprise Trust manage the Haven and provide on-site support for traders.