Petticoat Lane Market Improvement Works
The London Borough of Tower Hamlets
We have extensive experience on shopfront and high street regeneration projects and are currently delivering improvement works to 17 heritage shops along Petticoat Lane market area in London, as well as having been recently commissioned by Tower Hamlets Council to write and design their Shopfront Design Guidance Supplementary Planning document.
As part of the Tower Hamlets Middlesex Street regeneration programme, we were commissioned to undertake an in-depth feasibility study for shopfront improvement works on Middlesex Street and Wentworth Street, London. Detailing both the opportunities and challenges in increasing footfall on the high street, our proposal became intrinsically linked to the operation and visual appeal of the three markets taking place on and around the street.
The occupancy rates of Petticoat Lane, Wentworth Street and Middlesex Street markets are down by around 30%, and have been declining for some time. Often, the market layout encroaches on the shops, the pedestrian passage is both tight and limited, and many of the shopfronts are in a poor condition with oversized signage and solid metal security shutters. With the purpose of retaining the authentic character, spirit and diversity of the area – its tenants, family-run businesses, cafes and African fabric shops – our feasibility strategy outlines a sensitive and economic approach to improvements works, keeping the needs and values of existing tenants at its heart. Working with the Tower Hamlets Council team, heritage team and Heritage England, the proposal looks to maximise the visual appeal of shopfronts within the context of the area’s conservation status.
Crossing feasibility strategy, stakeholder consultation and architectural, landscape and graphic design, we have now obtained planning permission with zero conditions.
Project Details
Client
The London Borough of Tower Hamlets
Scope
Placemaking Plan, Urban Realm Strategy, Shopfront Improvement Works, Heritage & Conservation Works, Architecture & Landscape, Public Engagement
Status
2021 ongoing
Team
Royffe Flynn, The Regeneration. Practice, Appleyard & Trew
