Historic landmark could get first-ever lift for disabled visitors

The application seeks listed building consent for the installation of an enclosed lift within the Grade II-listed Clock Tower and Market Hall in Market Square, Lytham.

The proposal would provide access between the ground and first floors, allowing wheelchair users and elderly visitors to reach the upper showroom area for the first time.

Applicant Karl Weber, of Weber Designs, says the lift is needed because the first floor is currently only accessible via a narrow staircase.

The Clock Tower of Market Hall, Market Square, Lytham, Lancashire (Image: Rept0n1x)

According to the submitted Design and Access Statement, the lift would be located within the main showroom and would allow customers with mobility issues or pushchairs to access the upper floor where more modern kitchen displays are located.

The proposals would require a new opening to be created through the existing first-floor structure and the construction of a lift shaft within the Market Hall.

However, documents submitted with the application state that no alterations are proposed to the exterior of the listed building and that the work has been designed to avoid the building's most significant historic features.

A heritage statement submitted in support of the application describes the Clock Tower and Market Hall as one of Lytham's principal landmarks and a building of high heritage significance.

The Victorian structure has strong historic and communal value through its association with the development of Lytham as a market town and its continued role within the town centre.

Planning documents say alternative locations for the lift were considered before the chosen position within the Market Hall was selected.

The lift has been designed to minimise intervention into historic fabric, avoid principal architectural features and remain visually subordinate within the interior of the building.

The heritage assessment concludes the scheme would cause "less than substantial harm" at the lower end of the scale because of the need to create the floor opening and install the lift shaft.

However, it argues the impact is outweighed by public benefits including improved accessibility, compliance with equality legislation, enhanced usability of the first floor and the continued long-term viability of the listed building.

According to the application, the lift would feature a powder-coated steel frame, steel ropes and a lift car clad in clear polycarbonate or acrylic panels.

The opening would be formed through an existing concrete floor away from original internal brick walls and other historic features.

No decision has yet been made on the application by Fylde Council.