Indoor market crowned best in UK
Darlington Market has been crowned as the best small indoor market in the UK, at the prestigious Great British Market Awards. The annual event, which is organised by the National Association of British Markets (NABMA) showcases the best in market excellence.
The market beat stiff competition in its category and was recognised by judges for its ‘Positive impact on the high street, support for local businesses, and commitment to fostering community engagement through diverse events.’
Over recent years we have been working with market operator Market Asset Management to completely re-imagine the market and open up new opportunities, whilst preserving its heritage. Phase 3 of the market’s redevelopment is due to be complete in Spring 2024 and a host of new tenants are lined up to showcase their wares, alongside many existing traders who have operated from the site for many years.
Raymond Linch, Managing Director of Market Asset Management, said: “We’re very proud of what we’ve achieved at Darlington Market during a very short space of time. We now have a wide variety of traders, with new tenants opening up every few weeks and we look forward to the completion of phase 3 of the market’s redevelopment in the coming months.
“Markets provide a place for everybody, irrespective of background. They can act as the heart of a community and that’s precisely what we’re seeing at Darlington. We’ve worked in close partnership with the council to make these improvements, which have now been recognised with this prestigious national award. I’d like to thank everyone who has been involved in this success.”
Cllr Chris McEwan, Cabinet lead for economy, said: "Darlington is a thriving, vibrant and successful town and the indoor market is a well-loved and historic local venue. Significant investment has been made to upgrade the facility so that it is fit for a modern audience, and we are delighted that the work we have been doing to preserve and transform the site, has been recognised on a national scale. Several new, independent businesses have been welcomed to the site, which brings retail, hospitality and leisure together under one roof; with more set to join as works complete. We are confident that the market will continue to go from strength to strength and will help to ensure Darlington remains great place to live, work or visit.”
The recognition is the second such award in recent months, with Darlington Market’s Assistant Manager Rob Ord being crowned Young Market Champion Of The Year 2023 at the NABMA Awards on 9th Oct in Harrogate.
The team from Darlington Market picked up their most recent award at a ceremony held in Birmingham which brought together the best markets in the UK to recognise industry excellence.