Advisory board formed to monitor Darlington Market progress

The collaboration between Darlington Borough Council and Market Asset Management (MAM), the venue’s owners, was set up amid concerns about the facility’s future and growing pressure to regain control of the town centre site. 

In a new update on the Strategic Advisory Board, the local authority said it will meet quarterly to review the market’s performance, discuss developments, and recommend improvements.

It will consist of officers from MAM, a councillor and council officer, and independent advisors from local businesses and market experts. 

“Both the council and MAM have been working together to support the development of the market offer, with a focus on maintaining operational standards, supporting traders, and contributing to the vibrancy of the town centre,” a council report reads. 

The local Labour Party pledged to take over the indoor market ahead of the 2023 local elections, but has since said bringing the market back in-house is not viable. 

Instead, last year, it pledged to set up the board to improve transparency and the decision-making processes behind the future of the facility. 

Market Asset Management (MAM) was tasked with improving the building in 2017 when the then Labour-led council relinquished responsibility. 

It has overseen a significant redevelopment of the market, which has included creating a new street food area and an enhanced focus on hosting events to attract a younger and broader demographic of visitors.

However, the site has been dogged by repeated closures since the renovation in 2021.

Topics due to be discussed by members include a strategic plan that outlines the market’s long-term goals and objectives. Market performance will be analysed and new initiatives to enhance the facility will engage with the community for feedback. 

But the board will not have the power to make decisions on behalf of the council or be involved with individual applications for lettings, leases and licences. 

The report adds: “Since the establishment of the Strategic Advisory Board, communication and mutual understanding between the Council and MAM have strengthened significantly. 

“The board has created a constructive forum for open dialogue, shared insight, and clearer alignment of expectations. 

“This improved foundation now provides a strong platform on which to develop and deepen an effective working relationship, enabling both organisations to collaborate with greater confidence and purpose as we move forward.”

Councillors at Darlington Borough Council are due to discuss the latest progress with the Strategic Advisory Board at a meeting on Thursday (April 16).