Work underway at new Openshaw fish market

Russells Construction, the Manchester-based newbuild and refurbishment contractor, is revamping part of Openshaw’s New Smithfield Market.

The firm, which operates from Westpoint Enterprise Park, will build a new £4.2m fish market at the centre and has already carried out groundworks on land next to the current market hall.

Designed by Glasgow’s GDLodge architects, the project comprises a new 37,670 sq ft building with 10 adjoining units for tenants, in addition to chill and freezer rooms, office space and loading areas.

The director of Russells Construction, Andrew Russell, commented: “It is important for the traders to continue operating as normal and we will draw on our experience of working at New Smithfield market before and other similar schemes to ensure we work efficiently in a live environment with constricted space.

“Each of the new units is tailored to meet the individual needs of the traders, so the size, layout, floors, drainage and partitions all differ, as do the temperature requirements.”

He added: “As the fish is delivered fresh every morning and is packed in salt, the floors and drainage are particularly important to ensure that the salt is properly washed away to avoid corrosion.”

The new facility is due for completion in January next year.

New Smithfield Market plans to remain open for the duration of the work, while traders are still operating in the old fish market. When the project is complete, the original building will be demolished to make way for a new car park

Manchester City Council’s executive member for culture and leisure, Councillor Rosa Battle, said: “The investment in the new fish market forms a vital part of the wider £8.5m upgrade to New Smithfield Market. It will provide the traders with high quality, modern facilities, suited to each of their needs, ensuring that the market can continue to thrive.”

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