TCS completes Blackpool markets upgrade

TOWN Centre Securities has completed the refurbishment of its Abingdon Street indoor market in Blackpool’s town centre.

The Leeds-based developer’s refurbishment involved restoring a mock Tudor frontage and creating new shop fronts. The work was carried out with a grant from Blackpool Borough Council and the Heritage Lottery Fund .

The market site was originally built as the town’s police station in 1862 by TH Smith, which was the main contractor for parts of the Winter Gardens. The building originally included offices, four shops and a builders’ yard to the rear, but it became a market hall in 1928 following construction of its main hall.

It now contains more than 60 individual stalls selling everything from fresh fruit, meat and fish to cosmetics, jewellery and fashion. Town Centre Securities managed to work around stallholders to make sure the market stayed open during its refurbishment.

David Donkin, associate director for Town Centre Securities, said: “It’s great to see this phase of work complete which significantly improves the look of the market and makes this part of Abingdon Street more attractive. 

“We are committed to upgrading this important and historic market hall and will continue to invest in this busy town centre market.”