A long term vision

When the building was officially opened by Mayor Mackie in 1858 as a fresh produce hall, it was right at the heart of the community. We wanted to bring it full circle and return it to the community of today as a place to socialise, eat, drink and hang out.

Creative problem-solving

Mackie Mayor had lain empty since 1974 when the city’s fresh food market was moved to East Manchester. Our challenge was to see the people of Manchester flooding through its doors again.

Restoring faith

We imagined the huge, vaulted glass ceiling, ornate wrought iron columns, and grand mezzanine level as a European style food hall. We secured that future by bringing on board the team behind the hugely successful Altrincham Market.

Back to the future

Working with historic buildings isn’t easy. There were challenges to overcome in a building scarred by years of neglect and decline (it was even a skate park for a while!).

With our specialist conservation architects, Buttress, we made sure the Grade II Listed building’s restoration was sensitive and in keeping with its rich history.