One Year On from Completion at Derby Market Hall: SMART Balustrades Returns to Review Performance and Quality
One year after successfully completing our balustrade installation at the iconic Derby Market Hall, members of the SMART Balustrades Team recently returned to the site to review how our systems are performing in a live public environment.
Delivered in partnership with main contractor Wates Group, the refurbishment of Derby Market Hall was completed in February 2025 and represented a significant restoration and modernisation of one of Derby’s most historic public buildings.
Our return visit provided an opportunity to inspect the long-term performance, structural integrity and visual quality of our structural glass balustrade systems, as well as capture high-quality photography showcasing the installation in daily use. It also reaffirmed the durability, compliance and design excellence that SMART Balustrades delivers across major UK commercial and public sector projects.
Supporting the Refurbishment of a Historic Derby Landmark
Derby Market Hall is one of the city’s most recognisable heritage buildings, originally opened in 1866. The extensive refurbishment delivered by Wates Group has revitalised the building, transforming it into a vibrant modern destination while carefully preserving its historic character.
The project required the integration of modern safety infrastructure, including fully compliant balustrade systems, without compromising the architectural integrity of the Grade II listed structure.
SMART Balustrades was appointed to design, manufacture and install specialist structural glass balustrade systems across key internal areas of the market hall, supporting safe public circulation throughout the building while maintaining clear sightlines and a contemporary finish.
One year on, our systems continue to perform exactly as intended, supporting safe use in this busy public environment.
Delivering Balustrade Systems for High-Traffic Public Buildings
Public buildings such as Derby Market Hall require balustrade systems that can withstand continuous daily use while maintaining safety, compliance and appearance. SMART Balustrades specialises in delivering structural glass balustrades designed to meet the highest UK safety standards, including full compliance with BS 6180 and relevant building regulations.
Our systems are engineered to provide:
- Long-term structural performance
- Resistance to wear and environmental exposure
- Safe fall protection in public areas
- Low maintenance requirements
- High-quality architectural finishes
The 3.0kN line load performance achieved at Derby Market Hall ensures the balustrades provide reliable protection even in busy public environments.
Collaboration with Wates Group
The successful delivery of Derby Market Hall was made possible through close collaboration with Wates Group, one of the UK’s leading construction companies.
Wates Group has extensive experience delivering complex refurbishment and heritage projects, ensuring historic buildings are modernised while preserving their architectural significance.
Working alongside experienced contractors like Wates allows SMART Balustrades to deliver technically complex balustrade installations safely, efficiently and to the highest standards.
Our partnership ensured that all balustrade systems were delivered on programme and fully compliant with project specifications.
Proven Long-Term Performance and Quality
Returning to Derby Market Hall one year after completion demonstrates the durability, reliability and quality of SMART Balustrades installations.
Our structural glass balustrade systems continue to perform exactly as designed, providing safe and compliant fall protection while enhancing the architectural quality of the building.
Projects like Derby Market Hall reinforce our commitment to delivering balustrade systems that stand the test of time.
Partner with SMART Balustrades on Your Next Project
If you are planning a commercial, public sector, heritage or refurbishment project requiring compliant structural glass balustrades, SMART Balustrades can provide complete design, manufacture and installation services.
Our team works closely with contractors and architects to deliver safe, durable and visually outstanding balustrade systems.
Contact SMART Balustrades today to discuss your project requirements!
