Client: Wyre Council
Value: £115,000.00
Custom House Square is a heritage-led public realm improvement project located on Custom House Lane in Fleetwood, positioned between Fleetwood Museum, Fleetwood Market, and the adjacent public car park. Developed to create a vibrant and welcoming community space, the project has significantly enhanced connectivity between key local attractions while providing an attractive environment for residents, visitors, and local businesses.
Following a public consultation initiated by Wyre Council in 2021, the scheme was designed to transform an underutilised area into a versatile urban space that celebrates Fleetwood’s rich heritage while supporting community wellbeing and social interaction. The design incorporated high-quality landscaping features, improved accessibility, new lighting, seating areas, and extensive planting to create a safe and inviting destination throughout the year.
The works commenced with comprehensive site clearance operations, including tree felling, crown lifting and thinning of retained trees, and the removal of existing scrub and self-seeded vegetation. Excavation works were then undertaken to achieve the required formation levels, followed by the importation and installation of granular sub-base materials to provide a robust foundation for the new public realm infrastructure.
New kerbs, edging restraints, and channel units were installed to define spaces and improve drainage. High-quality stone flagged paving and concrete surfacing were laid throughout the square, creating durable and accessible pedestrian routes that seamlessly connect the surrounding facilities. Street furniture, including seating areas, was carefully positioned to encourage visitors to spend time within the space and enjoy the surrounding heritage setting.
A comprehensive lighting scheme was delivered through the installation of new ducting, cabling, electrical connections, and lighting columns, improving safety and enhancing the visual character of the square during evening hours. Soft landscaping works included the importation of topsoil and the creation of new planting beds featuring a variety of ornamental planting to add colour, texture, and seasonal interest. Steel knee rails were also installed where required to provide protection and define landscape areas.
The completed Custom House Square has successfully transformed a previously overlooked area into a high-quality public space that improves connectivity, promotes community interaction, celebrates local heritage, and contributes positively to the ongoing regeneration of Fleetwood town centre.
