Crewe Market Hall

Cheshire East Council

Sutcliffe were appointed by Cheshire East Council from RIBA Stage 1 as part of an ambitious plan to transform Crewe's historic Market Hall into a vibrant venue for independent food and drink vendors and large events. The Grade II Listed building required careful design to preserve its heritage while addressing structural issues.

At a glance

What we delivered

  • A new ground-bearing concrete slab for improved durability
  • The revitalisation of Crewe Market Hall
  • A small extension to the rear to house moder toilets
  • A stunning façade enhanced with external archways with structural glazed windows and doors
  • Preserved Grade II Listed status through extensive heritage consultation
  • Contribution to the wider generation of Crewe Town Centre

Crewe Market Hall

Sutcliffe were appointed by Cheshire East Council from RIBA Stage 1 to lead the transformation of Crewe Market Hall into a vibrant venue for independent food and drink traders and large-scale events.

A small rear extension was designed to house modern toilet facilities, using load-bearing masonry and timber roof joists to blend seamlessly with the existing structure. The project required meticulous planning and execution to overcome the constraints of working with a historic building while meeting contemporary standards

Sutcliffe’s expertise in structural and civil engineering was crucial in addressing these complexities. The successful completion of the project not only revitalised the Market Hall but also contributed significantly to the ongoing regeneration of Crewe Town Centre, delivering a modern, functional space that retains its historical charm.

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Project challenges

This Grade II Listed building presented significant challenges, including its deteriorated ground floor, which necessitated the installation of a new ground-bearing concrete slab to support the new loadings and ensure accessibility. One of the key challenges was balancing the need for modern upgrades with the preservation of the building’s historical value. Sutcliffe worked closely with heritage officers to design interventions that respected the building’s architectural significance. This included the integration of structural glazed windows and doors into the large external archways, enhancing both functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Architect: Purcell
Contract value: £2.5M
Completion date: May 2021