Progress of Darlington Market welcomed – but struggles remain

Darlington Borough Council officers said the new-look local landmark has become a key community hub for businesses and visitors after a rocky period. 

Market Asset Management (MAM), the current firm running the site, was tasked with improving the building in 2017 when the then Labour-led council relinquished responsibility. 

The redevelopment of Darlington Market has taken place over several years and included creating a new street food area and an enhanced focus on hosting events to attract a younger and wider demographic of visitors. 

Despite the reported progress several traditional traders, some operating within the market for decades, have closed.

Mark Ladyman, assistant director for economic growth, said the site’s progress has been “generally positive” but could be improved amid a challenging time for businesses and town centres. 

An artisan bakery school is due to open in the former Millets unit, while a new fish and chip vendor will also open soon. 

Chris McEwan, cabinet member for economy, told a council meeting debating the market’s progress that the popularity of the facility has recently improved. “We face challenges in terms of town centres, particularly in provincial towns like ourselves,” he said. “However, there are some real positives. It’s being reshaped into a great hospitality venue.”

Yet, Conservative councillor Scott Durham said the redeveloped site is yet to fulfil its potential. He told the meeting: “There are benefits in there, there are times when it’s really busy. But it’s fair to say the original vision hasn’t come to pass, and that is disappointing. More than anything, you get the feeling that there is still something missing.”

Council officials, in partnership with MAM, continue to respond to new habits and trading conditions. 

Recommended reading: 

Subscribe to The Northern Echo now.

Mr Ladyman said: “Markets are changing from the more traditional approach to using these venues as the hearts of towns and hubs. What we’ve got now is not what we envisaged but it’s a product of time and commercial necessity rather than any sinister reason. It’s something that’s probably more sustainable than trying to replicate what we had in the 1970s and 1980s.” 

A high turnover of traders has alarmed visitors, but bosses insist it can be viewed positively. Mr Ladyman added: “The high turn has begun to settle. When it first opened we attracted six stalls and there are none of the originals left. But that’s a positive, it’s continually renewing itself. I know there are at least two that have gone into permanent premises or have decided a market stall is not for them.

“There isn’t one particular reason. Some didn’t make any money and fell by the wayside, but the majority that have moved on are a positive story rather than a negative.”

Image Credits and Reference: https://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/news/24845150.progress-darlington-market-welcomed—struggles-remain/?ref=rss