Design firm DV8 wins Southport Market overhaul contract

The design company has been appointed by Dawnvale Group and Sefton Council to refurbish the failing Southport Market.

The market site sits in the town’s market district, with the original food hall burning down soon after its grand opening in 1857. The current building is the second version of the design and retains its Victorian features.

The vision for the redesign will draw on the successes of European food markets and will incorporate a cultural model that encourages social eating and sharing, local partnership and collaboration, and supporting local producers and small businesses.

It is to be inspired by Southport’s coast and will draw on expertise from local food and drink specialists such as brewers of craft ales and small batch spirits. The market will also include a flexible events space in the middle of the market.

DV8 has said it plan to incorporate funfair elements, including carousel horses, and circus tent-style canvas into the scheme.