Search set to begin for Darlington Markets partner

The search for a partner for Darlington Markets is set to begin in earnest as a special report goes before Darlington Borough Council’s Cabinet next week (Tuesday 3 May).

The report outlines the proposed process for selecting a partner and recommends that £200,000 be spent on essential repairs to enable the market to continue to trade and make it more attractive to a partner.

The move follows a recent meeting between traders and Council officials, when it was agreed to invite expressions of interest from private sector companies to take over the running of the popular Covered Market, as well as the twice-weekly outdoor markets.

The report to Cabinet states that the process of finding and securing a partner could take up to a year, so in an effort to improve conditions for traders and shoppers using the Covered Market, essential repairs should be carried out on the roofing and guttering to make the building watertight. The electrical system and fire alarm would also need to be replaced.

The work, which will be planned in consultation with traders and carried out with minimum disruption, will not only help ensure business can continue but also make the market more attractive to potential partners.

Traders will also be involved in the process of selecting a partner, with the aim of identifying the best opportunity for delivering a sustainable Darlington Markets offer that will enhance the town centre for both local residents and visitors to the borough.

The proposal will include the Covered Market, Old Town Hall, shop units and Outdoor Market, while the Town Clock will remain the responsibility of the Council. The emphasis will be on finding the best quality and an important part of the agreement will be a commitment by the partner to carry out essential works to the market buildings to ensure its future.

Councillor Nick Wallis, Darlington Borough Council’s cabinet member for leisure and local environment, said: “Our discussions with traders have been very positive and we see this as a once in a lifetime opportunity to enhance Darlington Markets.

“Agreement on the process for selection is an important first step in our search for a private sector partner with whom we can deliver a refreshed, exciting and sustainable market – both indoor and outdoor - which traders and shoppers can continue to be proud of.”

Alex Blackham, acting chairman of Darlington Market Retail Stallholders’ Association, said: “It has been a tough time for all the stallholders. We have come through this and secured good working relationships with representatives from the council.

“With one common goal to create a market that both shoppers and traders can be very proud of, we intend to be heavily involved in the selection process to secure a private sector partner.

“Morale has been low amongst traders as they feared generations of hard work would be coming to an end and that family businesses would not be passed down to children and grandchildren. We need a big hug!! And there is nothing like the ringing of a cash register to boost morale, so we need people to shop local and support their local markets. Accept the markets for what they are and take the time to appreciate the history of Darlington Markets.”

Angela Smedley, National Market Traders chair for Darlington, said: “We traders recognise the need for change and improvement and welcome the opportunity to work together with the council in selecting a private partner.

“Darlington market traders are passionate about improving and growing our market town heritage for future generations and building upon the diversity of independent traders.”

The report will go before Cabinet at its meeting on Tuesday 3 May.

Any decision will not affect the ongoing public consultation over the authority’s budget, which runs until the end of May. To find out more log onto the website at: www.darlington.gov.uk/budget.