Preserving heritage, guiding progress
We have played a longstanding role in supporting the development and preservation of Leadenhall Market, one of London’s most iconic Victorian landmarks. It was also home to our head office for several decades. Our involvement spans a wide range of projects, from helping stakeholders navigate the unique challenges of maintaining, to modernising a historic site, while accommodating a busy commercial environment.
Our involvement has included providing coordination and health & safety advice during extended closures for major productions, such as the Harry Potter films, as well as supporting ongoing maintenance and modernisation efforts. Practical measures, such as the regular use of a kestrel to deter pigeons, reflect the detailed operational guidance we help enable to preserve the market’s structure and aesthetic integrity.
We also advise on adapting to evolving regulations, from changes to smoking rules to managing a growing mix of bars, restaurants, and retail. Our former headquarters at Leadenhall Court are being redeveloped into a 36-storey skyscraper, where the lower floors blend with the historic surroundings using traditional masonry, while upper floors transition into a modern glass tower. Careful demolition, structural monitoring, and heritage considerations have been key due to the Grade II listing of the market.
Leadenhall Market exemplifies how we help balance heritage preservation with contemporary development, showcasing our ability to guide diverse stakeholders - including heritage groups, developers, and insurers - through complex, high-profile urban projects where continuity and progress must coexist.