Wirral Growth Company (WGC), a 50:50 joint venture between Wirral Council and nationwide placemaker, Muse, is to host consultation events to share their views on emerging design ideas.

The former House of Fraser site, owned by Wirral Council, is set to be the home for the new Birkenhead market.

The proposals being put forward would see the House of Fraser building demolished and the creation of a standalone market, complete with with independent retail, food and beverage stalls and new accessible public spaces linked into St Werburgh’s Square and Oliver Street East.

The new market has been designed to recapture the historic spirit of the 1845 market, through the creation of a thriving hub of activity in the town centre. The vision is to deliver a standout sustainable development that supports established and aspiring local businesses and provides a new destination for shopping, leisure, culture and community events.

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The current market will continue to be open for business as usual and will stay there and remain trading as normal until the new market is complete. One to one discussions with traders will take place alongside consultation with the public.

Chair of Wirral Council's economy, regeneration and development committee, Cllr Tony Jones, said: "A key part of our redevelopment plans for Birkenhead town centre has always been the market. It is vital that local people get involved, to help us shape a revitalised and vibrant town centre.

"The creation of a purpose-built indoor market, alongside a new office quarter and new homes provides the opportunity to increase footfall to the town, supporting traders and local businesses. As we move forward with our plans, I encourage everyone to get involved and have their say."

Mike Horner, development director at Muse, said: "We're really looking forward to meeting traders, the community and other key stakeholders, to hear their thoughts on our collective plans for the new market. Any consultation or conversation is an opportunity for local people to help shape proposals and we're encouraging everyone to come along and have their say.

"Working with partners, we’ll create a place that works for both traders and customers alike; that gives a nod to the town’s rich heritage, but also creates a platform for it to realise its ambitions for the future."

Consultation events will take place at BirkenEd’s Place, 8-10 Borough Pavements in the Grange Precinct at the following times and dates:

Thursday 9th March from 11am – 4.30pm

Saturday 11th March from 11am – 4pm.