City Leader gives Market Hall review update

The Market Hall in Derby city centre. Image by LDRS.

The leader of Derby City Council says she is focusing on “building the Market Hall’s current momentum” amid an ongoing review of its operation since a major revamp took place.

Councillor Nadine Peatfield provided an update after officers confirmed the historic city centre building was under a review following criticism since its grand reopening almost a year ago.

The Labour leader revealed in her update the Market Hall was now getting, on average, a weekly footfall of 15,000 people.

The council-owned Grade-II listed building returned to public use in May last year following a £35 million renovation.

Food and drink outlets are located in the hall as well as independent traders. Special themed events, including farmers’ markets and music gigs, also take place there.

The council said its grand opening weekend last May saw more than 30,000 people enter through its doors. And it was reported the hall attracted around 50,000 people over the Christmas period.

However, there has been criticism of the relaunch.

It was reported that footfall numbers at one stage were “dropping off a cliff” and there have been public calls on social media for it to return to its previous use as a traditional market after concerns of an “empty” feel.

A council boss told a meeting in February that a review had begun over the Market Hall’s current use.

Speaking at that meeting, Cllr Peatfield claimed the Market Hall’s previous use as a traditional market “wasn’t working”.

Since then, an array of events have been announced at the renovated venue.  These include last week’s Derby Dog Show, this week’s Derby Bike Festival on Saturday April 18th and a Young Traders Market on May 30th.

Drink enthusiasts can enjoy the weekend Craft Beers, Wines and Spirits Festivals from Friday June 12th and Friday October 2nd.

Derby City Council said it could not share details of outcomes or conclusions at this stage as the review remains ongoing.

Cllr Peatfield said: “Conducting a review of the Market Hall’s operating model and marketing strategy is standard practice for any new commercial venture, and reflects our commitment to its long-term success.

“We’ve been meeting with our traders regularly to ensure their feedback is an integral part of the process and the conclusions will be shared in the coming weeks.

“Our focus remains on building on the Market Hall’s current momentum. Regular weekend events like the Derby Dog Show, the farmers’ markets, seasonal festivals and workshops, plus ongoing community bookings alongside our varied trader offer, have all contributed to an average weekly footfall of 15,000 people.”