Market Hall Refurbishment

LHC Design was appointed by Teignbridge District Council to assist with their vision of improving the town centre. The proposed project involves partially demolishing the late 1970s additions to the Grade II Listed Market Hall, restoring its original stone façade and shape. It includes external landscaping to create a pedestrian link between Market Street and Market Square.

The north-facing retail units will be re-clad, aligning with Market Walk’s shopfront improvements.

The main hall will be refurbished into a mixed-use venue with street food stalls, retail spaces, and event areas. New accessible WCs, a mezzanine café, and a modern entrance will be added. The scheme also includes landscaping Market Square to enhance the public realm and support future regeneration.

Location

Newton Abbot

Client

AECOM, Teignbridge District Council

Service

Architecture, Conservation, Interior Design

Sector

Health, Leisure, Public Realm, Refurbishment, Sport & Leisure

Value

£3.5m approx

Area

4,492 sq m

Project Description

Teignbridge District Council acquired Newton Abbot shopping centre to enable investment in improvements for the long term benefit of the town centre. The first phase of these improvements was the successful shopfront improvement programme, which has provided the basis for this and further investment in the vicinity.

The Market Hall refurbishment project forms part of the next phase of the wider masterplan vision for the regeneration of Newton Abbot town centre, as set out in the Local Plan and the Newton Abbot Regeneration Study.

Design Approach

The design was developed collaboratively with the client, design team, specialist market advisors, and the LPA through a 12-month pre-application process. The scheme carefully balances the functional needs of the brief with the sensitive restoration of the listed building, enhancing Newton Abbot’s built environment. It incorporates feedback from the LPA and conservation consultants while adhering to the budget set by the High Streets Levelling Up Funding. The final design creates a safe, attractive space, positively reviewed by the LPA, and a heritage consultant concluded the proposals have a beneficial impact on the listed asset’s setting.

Project Vision

The design proposal carefully considers conservation and heritage feedback, successfully balancing the impact on the listed building with the benefits of the new function and the removal of the unsightly retail link. The development will bring social, economic, and public benefits by attracting investment into Newton Abbot’s town centre.

It aims to transform the town into a premier South Devon market destination, offering enhanced facilities, leisure, and entertainment opportunities, boosting the night-time economy. The scheme respects the area’s heritage while driving regeneration, ensuring the town remains a vibrant and attractive hub for future generations.