Extension to Wholesale Fish Market

A limited competition involving four local architects. The competition was ultimately awarded to Mangnall & Littelwood, not without controversy. The schemes by Speakman & Hickson and William Dawes were illustrated British Architect 22 June 1877.

EXTENSIONS TO WHOLESALE FISH MARKET. SHUDEHILL
Sir - Allow me to call your attention to a few unpleasant facts in connection with the above, which I consider ought not be allowed to pass without notice. On the plans being submitted to the Markets Committee at their first meeting they resolved to recommend those prepared by “Unitas” (Speakman & Hickson) as meeting their original requirements in every way. When, however, the matter is brought before council for their sanction, for some unknown reason and evidently against the feeling of a large and influential body (see reports of last council meeting) the designs of “Veritas” (Mangnall & Littlewoods) were allowed to be substituted, and in defiance of the committee's recommendation, were passed by three or four votes.. Without dwelling on the injustice of such proceedings, I may fairly be excused expressing a sense of wrong done to the then firm of Speakman & Hickson and trust, in the general interest of the profession, that such proceedings may not be repeated.

I am, Sir, your obedient servant
Jno W Hickson
28 St Ann’s Square Manchester     June 14 1877

Reference    British Architect 22 June 1877 – design illustrated
Reference    British Architect 15 June 1877 Page 377 - letter from Hickson