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Newry’s historic variety market has been given a new lease of life by the council with agreement at this weeks Enterprise, Regeneration and Tourism meeting to offer the venue on a monthly basis for an Artisan Market on the second Sunday of the month.
In recent months the market has also been used for popular record fairs, a Neighbourfood Newry initiative and a Street Feast event. Tonight 18 March sees Street Feast at the Market while this Sunday 20 March sees a Super Record and CD Fair.
The innovative plans for the Newry market could see a yearly turnover in the region of £100k for stall holders as well as an expected financial knock on effect for local businesses.
The previous success of the artisan market in February and December, with almost 1,000 visitors to each, has provided a much needed economic growth to the area.
The Downpatrick Community Collective has been appointed to manage and deliver the Newry Artisan Market on a monthly basis at no fee.
The only cost to the council will come in the form of opening and closing the market with a clean up operation to the tune of £1k per annum.
Broadening out of the artisan market concept has seen NMDDC view several location in south Armagh.
Crossmaglen Square will now be given a feasibility test with two pilot programmes in the coming months at a cost of £1,400.
A report will also be tabled at the next enterprise, regeneration and tourism committee for the operation of artisan markets in Newcastle, Downpatrick and Warrenpoint.
