Revitalising a historic city landmark for a new generation

Client: Preston City Council

Conlon Construction delivered the transformation of Preston’s Grade II listed Outdoor Market, creating a contemporary market hall and events space while preserving the heritage and character of one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks.

The project forms a key part of Preston’s wider regeneration programme, breathing new life into a historic asset and creating a flexible destination for traders, visitors and community events.

The Challenge

The refurbishment required the careful modernisation of a Grade II listed structure while protecting its historic significance and maintaining the character that has made Preston Market a focal point of city life for generations.

Works also needed to be delivered within a live city-centre environment, with public safety and the continued operation of neighbouring traders remaining a key priority throughout.

Our Solution

Working within the existing listed structure, Conlon delivered:

• A new structural frame to support the transformed market hall
• Contemporary glazed walls creating a weather-protected environment
• New tiled flooring throughout
• Upgraded utility and incoming service connections
• Infrastructure to support modern market operations and events
• Extensive safety and segregation measures to protect the public and neighbouring traders during construction

The result is a bright, flexible and welcoming space that combines modern functionality with the heritage of the original market structure.

The Outcome

Preston Markets has created a vibrant destination that supports local businesses, attracts visitors and strengthens the city’s wider regeneration ambitions.

By carefully balancing heritage preservation with modern design and functionality, the project has secured the future of a much-loved civic asset while creating new opportunities for traders, events and community activity.

The project received industry recognition, winning the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) North West Award for Creating Economically Successful Places, before going on to secure the competition’s overall regional award.