Darlington’s revamped market is drawing crowds, becoming a vibrant hub for locals and visitors alike
Darlington: Town Hall officials are buzzing about the local market. They say it’s become a real hotspot for both businesses and visitors. It’s great to see the community coming together like this.
Market Asset Management took over in 2017, and they’ve been working hard to spruce things up since the council handed over the reins. A recent council report highlighted how the Victorian Indoor Market is a key player in attracting folks to the town.
They mentioned that the market is a unique draw, especially with the street food hall that opened in 2021. It’s been a hit with everyone, making it a go-to spot for residents and visitors.
The redevelopment has been a multi-phase project. The first phase brought in six street food stalls, new restrooms, and a bar, plus some much-needed roof repairs. Phase two kicked off in August 2022, adding more toilets and sprucing up the entrance and trading areas.
In 2023 and 2024, they added new stalls to attract a younger crowd. Alongside familiar faces like David Jackson Butchers, new vendors have popped up, including Natural, Beaded Treasures, and Viking Coffee.
The council noted that the market has really transformed into a community hub. It’s being used for everything from running clubs to corporate meetings, which is pretty cool.
They’ve also hosted food festivals and Christmas events, which have been a blast. However, it’s sad to see some long-time traders closing up shop. On the bright side, the outside market has seen a whopping 116% income increase this year!
The Darlington Labour Party is pushing to bring the market back under council control ahead of the local elections. But the local Conservatives are skeptical, questioning if it’s just talk without action.
Former Council Leader Jonathan Dulston expressed concerns that the Labour Party’s promises might not hold water. Meanwhile, Councillor Chris McEwan acknowledged the complexities involved in regaining control but reassured everyone that they’re committed to keeping the market vibrant.
