Client: Warner Estate Holdings

Bolton Market Hall was built in 1855 and represents a fine example of Victorian cast iron construction. It is located prominently within the prime retail area of Bolton and as a consequence is Grade II listed.

A feasibility study was undertaken on behalf of Warner Estate Holdings to ascertain how the retail offer within the Market Hall could be improved. The building was showing signs of decline with a number of kiosks being vacant or without tenants and areas such as the mezzanine level falling into disrepair as a result.

Approach
Gerald Eve was instructed to compile, submit, justify and negotiate planning and listed building consent applications to provide alterations and improvements to the internal arrangement and elevations of the Market Hall. This included extensive internal works to facilitate the creation of additional retail floorspace and construction of a free-standing three storey building to the east of the Hall.

Detailed discussions were held with English Heritage and Bolton Metropolitan Council as well as local residents, retailers and market traders. These discussions were paramount in achieving approval for the scheme. We had to achieve the protection and enhancement of the Market Hall building without impacting negatively on its special historic and architectural character, whilst maintaining good relations with existing and prospective tenants.

Results
We were successful in obtaining planning permission and listed building consent for the scheme from Bolton Metropolitan Council. The alterations and refurbishment of the Market Hall have now been completed.

The proposals constituted significant investment in Bolton town centre in creating a critical mass of retail floorspace.