Plans for the new Birkenhead Market, which will relocate to the former TJ Hughes store in the Pyramids Shopping Centre, have been submitted to Wirral Council. The historic 19th-century market is set to move following a period of uncertainty over its future location.
Work to Begin Before Year-End
The council announced this week that work at the TJ Hughes site is set to commence, with some market traders preparing to move before the end of 2026. A planning application has been submitted for external alterations to the former TJ Hughes building.
New Entrance Designs
The main entrance will be located on Borough Pavement, featuring a new glazed sliding double door with a "neutral and contemporary material palette." A second entrance will be created between the main entrance and the adjacent CEX unit, with the shopfront being upgraded as part of the works.
Planning permission is only required for external changes; internal alterations do not need approval.
Council Leader's Statement
Wirral Council leader Cllr Paula Basnett 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."
She added: "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."
