Brooks Forgings' newly developed rebar ground anchor socket has gained popularity and become a preferred solution for various outdoor market refurbishment projects across the UK.
A significant refurbishment project was recently completed at Bilston Outdoor Market in the West Midlands. The £8 million redevelopment, part of the Bilston Health & Regeneration Programme (HaRP), was approved by Wolverhampton Council.
Their objective was to modernise the 200-year-old market by improving access, adding new canopies, and enhancing public spaces.
Approved Market Stall Anchor Sockets
In collaboration with the lead contractor, Speller Metcalfe, Brooks Forgings provided 520 pieces of a larger version of our ground anchor socket, made from grade 500c T32 (32mm diameter) rebar stock.
Our in-house manufacturing capabilities for forging and machining enable us to adapt to specific project requirements for length and diameter.
Anchor Socket Installation
Once the groundwork is completed, the installation of the sockets is straightforward. A wet-drilling diamond core drill is typically used to create a hole to the required depth, and any debris is removed.
The socket is then test-fitted to ensure it sits flush with the ground surface. In this instance, the footprint of each plot matched the dimensions of the pagoda marquees used. A suitable resin is injected into the hole, and the ground anchor socket is inserted.
For this project, the contractor utilised a robust Hilti HIT-HY 200-A V3 two-part epoxy resin, which sets permanently after 24 hours.
Anchor Socket Usage
The anchor sockets feature a threaded, flush-fitting cap for protection when not in use. When required, this cap can be replaced with M20 DIN 580 stainless steel collared eye bolts, which are typically supplied to each market stall owner.
The feet of the pagoda / marquee are then secured to these installed eyebolts, ensuring safety during high winds or sudden gusts.
Bilston Market Reopening
The market reopened on Thursday, July 2, 2026. All outdoor stallholders used the issued pagodas marquees, securely fastened to the new market stall anchor sockets and eye bolts, ensuring the safety of all visitors.
If you need custom components or would like a quote for our rebar ground tie-down sockets, please reach out to our knowledgeable sales team today.
