The first phase of the demolition works is expected to take approximately 18 months, with the majority of buildings cleared across the site in that time. Ground and enabling works for new buildings will begin in tandem as the demolition moves across the site. This sequencing will accelerate the provision of new leisure, retail, commercial and residential facilities in the town centre allowing main building works to promptly start on cleared plots.
The first new building anticipated for completion is the new market hall, which is due to open its doors to the public in 2024. The existing market Wigan Market and Makinson Arcade will remain operational throughout the development.