Construction and fit-out work on the new Birkenhead Market is expected to begin in the coming days, marking a major milestone in plans to transform the town centre’s historic trading space.

The former TJ Hughes building will become the new home of Birkenhead Market as part of a wider regeneration programme aimed at creating a modern, accessible and vibrant destination for traders and visitors.

The move follows the approval of a Pre-Construction Services Agreement (PCSA) and the enabling works awarded to Krol Corlett Construction after a formal procurement process.

Wirral Council’s Economy, Regeneration and Housing Committee previously agreed plans in November 2025 to relocate traders either individually or collectively into refurbished units across Birkenhead town centre, before demolishing the existing market site for future redevelopment.

Discussions with market traders are ongoing as detailed design and delivery plans continue to take shape, ensuring their needs remain central to the project.

New market to boost footfall and revitalise town centre

The ambition for the project is to create a new indoor market within the former TJ Hughes unit that maximises footfall, supports local traders and provides a warm, welcoming environment for shoppers.

The redevelopment forms part of wider efforts to place Birkenhead Market back at the heart of the town centre economy and strengthen its role as a key community hub.

Leader of Wirral Council, Cllr Paula Basnett, said the start of construction represents an important step forward for Birkenhead.

She said: 

“This marks the start of an exciting new chapter for Birkenhead Market, and for the town centre as a whole.

“A huge amount of work has been going on behind the scenes to get to this stage. 

“I’m incredibly pleased that people will soon start to see a real transformation getting underway at the former TJ Hughes site to create the town’s new market.

“Birkenhead Market’s greatest strength has always been the people who make it what it is, and despite the challenges of recent years our traders have continued to serve customers and champion the market.

“Their partnership and commitment has been instrumental in bringing us to this point and will continue to be vital as we create a market fit for the future.

“This is fantastic for Birkenhead, for traders and for local people, and will be placing the Market at the heart of the town centre where it should be.”

Construction partnership aims to deliver modern yet heritage-led market

Daniel Tebay, Managing Director of Krol Corlett Construction, said the company is proud to be working alongside Wirral Council to deliver the project.

He said: 

“We’re delighted to be working in partnership with Wirral Council on the Birkenhead Market project, which represents an important investment in the town’s future.

“This development will help create a modern destination while respecting the market’s rich heritage and its place at the heart of the local community.

“We’re proud to play our part in bringing this exciting vision to life and delivering a project that will benefit traders, visitors and the wider Birkenhead area for many years to come.”

Once complete, the new market is expected to provide a revitalised trading environment designed to support local businesses, attract more visitors and contribute to the long-term regeneration of Birkenhead town centre.

READ MORE: Camp Knowsley returns to Knowsley Safari with bushcraft adventures and Safari Sleepovers