Completed in May 2015, this project consisted of the creation of a new restaurant and bar including an additional external seating terrace overlooking Doncaster’s transport interchange and railway station. Further to a competition involving local residents it was agreed that the restaurant/bar would be named after the notorious locomotive built in Doncaster in 1938, The Mallard; which today still holds the world speed record. Building Link Design worked collectively with the Contractors and the Local Authority to ensure that The Mallard, operated by the well known pub chain Hungry Horse, was delivered efficiently.

Situated on the first floor of Doncaster’s Frenchgate Centre, in close vicinity to other food outlets, this is The Frenchgate Centre’s first pub facility. The Mallard is a family-friendly establishment with a contemporary design throughout. The scheme has not only enhanced the amenities within the Frenchgate Centre but has also assisted in the creation of up to forty full and part-time jobs for the local community.

Building Link Design had to ensure that the surrounding historic environment was retained through the construction of The Mallard, taking into account that the scheme was to be positioned alongside a Grade II listed train station. Once planning was successfully granted, the proposed Building Regulations were set to construct the Mallard to fit in with the commercial operations of the Frenchgate centre.

Through co-operation with the Association for the Blind, Building Link Design were able to agree that a dedicated footpath from the train station to the Frenchgate food court would be incorporated in the scheme, facilitating a safer and secure environment for those who are impartially sighted.

An obstacle which had to be overcome was the construction and demolition of the new and existing walls whilst continuing to maintain the public right of way that required relocating. Through careful discussions with Doncaster Metropolitan Council, the construction took place whilst the Frenchgate sustained operations as normal.

The finished development represents a huge contribution to the Doncaster area, proving a great success for the client.

Building Link Design worked collectively with the Contractors and the Local Authority to ensure that The Mallard, operated by the well known pub chain Hungry Horse, was delivered efficiently