Warrington Market opens for business in state-of-the-art facility

Steve Park, left, marks market opening

A new permanent home for Warrington’s award-winning market has opened, in the latest major milestone at Time Square, the mixed-use destination in the heart of the town centre.

The £142m development is being delivered by Warrington & Co on behalf of Warrington Borough Council, with innovative, urban regenerator, Muse Developments appointed as development manager.

The market has now moved from its temporary home created at the start of the Time Square regeneration to keep the market trading. The 31,000 sq ft unit has now been let to Gravity Active Entertainment for its 13th site.

Developers say the new Warrington Market blends together the town’s heritage with its aspirations for the future, thanks to the retention of the historic façade to create a striking statement building.

Leon Guyett, development director at Muse Developments, said: “It’s a proud moment for everyone involved with Time Square as we see the new beating heart for the town open safely to serve the community.

“Warrington is a proud market town and, working collaboratively with the council, contractor and partners, we’ve been able to deliver a truly special scheme that will be a shining example of successful town centre repurposing that will benefit the town and provide a positive legacy for years to come.”

Warrington Borough Council’s director of growth, Steve Park, said: “The wait is over as we are now finally able to open Warrington’s new, state-of-the-art market, which is a welcome addition to the wider Time Square development.

“We can’t wait to show people the results of years of planning and hard work to bring this new, purpose-built, contemporary facility into operation.

“Markets bring a vibrancy to town centres and our new market will be home to over 50 independent traders, selling a variety of goods and services.

“The all new Cookhouse at Warrington Market will feature a range of traders, serving hot and cold cuisines from around the world, so there will be something for everyone to enjoy.

“Despite the challenges currently facing the high street nationally, our traders have worked with us to put measures in place around social distancing to ensure the new building is a safe and welcoming environment for everyone.

“It’s not quite the opening we had hoped for, but staff and traders are looking forward to a new beginning and can’t wait to serve customers again.”

Situated in the centre of Warrington with excellent accessibility via the local road network, Time Square will meet the area’s high demand for a fresh retail, leisure and entertainment destination.

Alongside the cinema, bars and restaurants, Time Square is home to Warrington Borough Council’s new 103,000 sq ft office and a 1,160-space car park.

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