Agenda item

Darlington Markets

Presentation by Assistant Director Economic Growth

Minutes:

The Assistant Director Economic Growth and Managing Director, Market Asset Management (MAM) gave a presentation (previously circulated) updating Members on progress made to date on the redevelopment of the Indoor market.

 

The presentation outlined the concepts for future trade; and detailed phase one of the redevelopment. It was reported that work to the roof was underway and was due to be finished by the launch of phase one; phase one was out to tender with an anticipated start date of January 2021 and completion date of April 2021; and that this would include a new entrance, public toilets, food and beverage offer, space for live entertainment and communal seating.

 

Details were provided on phase two of the redevelopment; this was due to start in April 2021, with a completion date of November 2021; phase two would include general improvements to the retail market.

 

It was reported that the market had been generating losses; the redevelopment would help the market to become profitable; MAM would be investing £1.8M in the market, with £300K invested to date; and that this redevelopment work would improve town centre footfall and provide a vibrant family based evening economy.

 

Following a question by Members it was confirmed that a planning application for the temperate garden and vaults had not been submitted; MAM would work closely with Heritage England, Darlington Borough Council and the public to ensure heritage requirements were met prior to the submission of this planning application, with work anticipated to start in December 2021 and be completed by May 2022.

 

Discussion ensued on the traders within the indoor market; concerns were raised in respect of rent and the loss of traders. The Managing Director, MAM confirmed that rent in Darlington was lower than the national average; that vacant possession was required to begin phase one; six traders had served notice, whilst negotiations were taking place with other traders; MAM had appointed staff to promote the market via social media and to provide support to traders. 

 

Following concerns raised in respect of the safety of night time use of the indoor market, Members were assured that the food and beverage offer would be fenced off from the rest of the market; and security cameras and guards would be in place.

 

Members highlighted the need for improved communication to ensure the public were aware that redevelopment work on the market was progressing in a timely manner.

 

Discussion ensued on the decision to relocate the outdoor market to the market square, with Members querying the involvement of traders in the decision, and the impact of the relocation on number of traders and footfall. Members were advised that the decision was undertaken in light of Covid-19 and social distancing requirements; the market square was identified as the most appropriate space to allow social distancing, for both the safety of traders and members of the public; the local representative of national market traders was involved in the discussions regarding the relocation, however whilst they understood the rationale, they were not in support of the decision. The Assistant Director, Economic Growth confirmed that whilst social distancing was still required, there was no further move of the outdoor market anticipated in the near future.

 

It was reported that traders were experiencing higher levels of trade on the outdoor market in its current location; Members requested figures in respect of footfall, number of traders, and forward forecasting.

 

Following a question from a Member, the Managing Director, MAM confirmed that a long term strategy for the outdoor market would be developed and shared with Members. 

 

RESOLVED – (a) That the presentation be noted.

 

(b) That a written response be provided to Members detailing figures for footfall, number of traders and forward forecasting.

 

(c) That the long term strategy for the Outdoor Market be shared with Members of this Scrutiny Committee.

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