Marlborough Square, Coalville Opening Celebration

Marlborough Square, Coalville Opening Celebration

Representatives from Danaher & Walsh were delighted to attend the official opening of Marlborough Square, Coalville, following the completion of the public realm regeneration project for North West Leicestershire District Council and Stepnell.

The opening ceremony celebrated both the history and future of the square. It began with a look back at Marlborough Square’s heritage, before a ribbon-cutting ceremony marked its official reopening. The local Town Crier then declared the square open on behalf of His Majesty the King.

A Public Realm Project Rooted in Local History

Marlborough Square has been at the heart of Coalville for generations.

In its early years, the area served as a busy public market for local farmers and producers. During the 1840s and 1850s, it developed into an important livestock trading space. The Cattle Market later sat behind Jackson Street.

Over time, the square became a focal point for community life. People gathered there for meetings, parades, markets, commemorations and local events.

As the town grew, shops, homes and services developed around the square. Belvoir Road and the High Street also expanded from this central location. As a result, Marlborough Square became an important part of Coalville’s identity.

From Market Place to Marlborough Square

For many years, the area was known as “New Market” or “Market Place”.

After research by Coalville Heritage Society, the origins of the name Marlborough Square became clearer. One theory suggested that the square may have taken its name from Marlboro cigarettes brought to the town by American GIs. However, this was later dismissed.

The more likely explanation was hiding in plain sight. Charles Deeming, a local entertainment figure, lived in Marlborough House, which is now part of The Emporium. The square then took its name from this residence.

Coalville’s Historic Entertainment Hub

Marlborough Square also played an important role in Coalville’s entertainment history.

The area once included the Public Hall, Assembly Rooms, The Engineers Arms and The Lion Hotel, which later became part of the Co-op. By the early 1900s, the square had become a popular entertainment hub.

A roller-skating rink later became The Olympia cinema. It joined other local cinemas, including The Electric Theatre, later known as The Grand, The Regal and The Rex. Charles Deeming and his son Edward owned and operated several of these venues.

This rich history helped shape Marlborough Square as a place for gathering, entertainment and community pride.

Regenerating an Important Public Space

The regeneration of Marlborough Square marks an important step in reviving this historic public realm space.

Danaher & Walsh supported the delivery of a high-quality urban environment that reflects the character of the town. The works helped improve the layout, accessibility and usability of the square.

Public realm schemes like this require careful coordination. They often involve paving, drainage, kerbing, surfacing, levels, street furniture, utilities and pedestrian access. Each element must work together to create a safe, attractive and long-lasting space.

The project also needed careful planning around existing buildings, pedestrian routes and the wider town centre environment.

Creating a Space for the Future

The renewed Marlborough Square will support markets, events, commemorations and community activities.

Its improved layout will help the square become a more welcoming and flexible space. In addition, the regeneration supports wider ambitions to breathe new life into Coalville town centre.

While the square itself has now been revitalised, attention will also turn to the surrounding buildings. Positive progress has already taken place, with The Regal undergoing a facelift and The Emporium continuing to thrive.

Other important buildings, including the Co-op building, The Rex and The Lion Hotel, still offer opportunities for future restoration.

Proud to Support Coalville’s Regeneration

Danaher & Walsh is proud to have played a part in the renewal of Marlborough Square.

The project celebrates Coalville’s history while helping to create a stronger future for the town centre. It also shows how thoughtful public realm improvements can support local identity, improve accessibility and encourage people to spend more time in shared spaces.

We would like to thank North West Leicestershire District Council for the images and Stepnell for the opportunity to support the delivery of this important scheme.

Thank you also to Stuart Warburton from Coalville Heritage Society for sharing the history of Marlborough Square.

Friday 30th August 2024: