Plans to transform the long-vacant TJ Hughes store in Birkenhead into a new home for the town's market are moving forward, Wirral Council has confirmed. The former retail unit, which closed in April 2021, has been empty for five years. Now, the proposal has entered its next phase, with the council awarding a Pre-Construction Services Agreement (PCSA) and enabling works to Krol Corlett Ltd.
Background of the Market Relocation
The decision follows the scrapping of earlier plans to move the market from Grange Precinct into the former Argos on Princes Pavements, which were abandoned last year. Those Argos plans, first revealed in September 2023, cost £1.3 million and faced opposition from traders who feared the market would not survive at that location. Previous proposals to locate the market in the former House of Fraser building, which cost £1.5 million to develop, were also scrapped via email.
In November 2024, market traders began eyeing the former TJ Hughes in the Pyramids shopping centre as a potential site. Councillors expressed support, though concerns about transparency were raised if the project encountered setbacks.
Next Steps and Costs
The PCSA preliminary works, valued at £610,843, cover design development, enabling works, and ordering long-lead items to avoid delays. The council stated that this will ensure the refurbishment of the TJ Hughes unit can proceed quickly to create a new Market Hall for Birkenhead. The contract was awarded after a formal procurement process where contractors submitted proposals for designing and refurbishing the space.
Engagement with market traders continues as discussions focus on the proposed layout. The council aims to design a space that maximizes footfall and provides a warm, welcoming environment for the public.
Official Statements
Leader of Wirral Council, Cllr Paula Basnett, said: "The new market will play an important role in the future of Birkenhead town centre. We want to see a destination that builds on the best of what we already have and creates an attractive and welcoming place to visit and shop."
Daniel Tebay, managing director of Krol Corlett, added: "This is a cornerstone project for the ongoing transformation of Birkenhead town centre. As a Wirral resident, I know how important the market is to Birkonians. We're midway through transforming the market hall in Accrington and understand what stallholders and the public want. Our skilled local tradespeople will ensure the best workmanship, and I look forward to bringing my family to enjoy the new market when it opens."
Tebay also noted that the company is currently completing a major project at Wirral College and is delighted to continue contributing to the borough's regeneration. "Once the design is completed, it will be followed by a main contract for refurbishment and fit-out works, subject to agreed costs and programme," he said.
Details of the decision are available on the council's website.
