Opening date agreed for new Birkenhead Market
The transformation of Birkenhead Market continues with an opening date now agreed for its move to the former TJ Hughes site in the town centre.
Wirral Council officers are continuing to work closely with traders to prepare for the move from the current market site to the former TJ Hughes building, where construction and fit-out works are underway.
In November 2025, Wirral Council's Economy, Regeneration and Housing Committee approved plans to relocate traders to refurbished units within Birkenhead town centre before the existing market site is demolished and brought forward for future redevelopment.
Full planning permission for works to the building have now been approved and the relocation is expected to see the new market open on 25 February 2027, marking the next chapter in the history of Birkenhead Market with the creation of a modern facility in the heart of the town centre.
The new date reflects the need to carry out additional work within the building to ensure it is fit for purpose, as well as not wanting to move traders too close to the busy Christmas period and thereby disrupting their businesses at an important time of the year.
The current preconstruction works have identified previously undiscovered water damage which will be addressed as the council moves towards agreeing the full construction contract which his due to begin soon.
Alongside the physical transformation of the building, discussions with traders are continuing to help shape a market that maximises footfall, supports trade and provides a welcoming environment for customers.
Cllr Paula Basnett, Leader of Wirral Council, said:
We know how important this move is for our traders, and our priority is to give them certainty about the next steps and make sure the new market is ready to welcome them.
While the issues that have come to light were not anticipated, identifying them now means they can be properly addressed before traders move into the building. We want to get this right and deliver a high-quality market that traders and customers can have confidence in from day one.
Having a clear move date means traders can plan ahead with confidence, while giving us the time needed to complete the remaining work and work together towards a successful opening.
Over the coming months, we will continue to work closely with traders and keep them updated on progress. We are also putting measures in place to support trade and increase footfall, including seasonal events, marketing and promotional activity, improvements to the existing market environment and other initiatives to encourage people to continue supporting Birkenhead Market.
This remains a major investment in the future of Birkenhead Market and the wider town centre. Our focus now is on completing the remaining work safely and to the right standard, supporting traders through the transition and making sure the new market is in the strongest possible position to succeed.
Birkenhead Market has been at the heart of the town for generations. We want to make sure it continues to have a strong and successful future.
Further updates will be shared with traders and the public as work progresses toward the opening in February 2027.
