Darlington Indoor Market plans for 2026 include World Cup fanzone

New stalls, a World Cup fan zone and film screenings are just some of Michael Harvey's plans for the market in the new year, as the venue hopes to move on from the "uphill battle" of 2025.

Just this summer, greengrocer Robin Blair, Darlington's longest-serving market trader, told The Northern Echo he couldn't see "any turnaround" in footfall.

Darlington Indoor Market.

He said he was "hanging on" when David Jackson Butchers closed on July 26 after 47 years, while fellow trader Matei Baran, who runs three street food stalls, admitted the Covid pandemic had a lasting impact on trade. But since then, the market has welcomed a host of new stalls which Michael says are having a positive impact.

He said: “We were making real progress in 2024, but then this year has been a bit of an uphill battle.

“It looks like next year will be better. We’re hoping to create a fan zone for sports events like the World Cup and Six Nations, as well as themed movie nights.

“By this time next year, I hope the market becomes a pillar of the community again. The market isn’t just for Christmas.

Michael Harvey. (Image: Michael Harvey)

“The market won’t work if we keep beating it down. We are pulling a rip cord on something new, but we need a lot of effort to animate the place, and it just needs to be used.”

This year, the market has welcomed drink dessert stall The Pearlfect Sip, Simply Boxed Gifts, dog treat stall Jasper’s Tasty Treats and Renegade Ink Designs.

And while many are on temporary contracts, Michael is hopeful many will take permanent spots as they "see the vision" he has for the market - a blend of traditional traders and new street food ventures.

He says a new area for free toy, clothing and book exchanges has also been a success.

Darlington Indoor Market. (Image: STUART BOULTON)

However, despite the new stalls and initiatives, the venue still struggles with low footfall.

Michael added: “There has been an increase in footfall when the stalls are open – people are curious. But, it is still a struggle.

“I think that is the nature of the high street, but it’s really important we get people coming into the building.

“It is not easy. But, there has certainly been an increase in activity since new stalls have opened – and there are a few more set to open up.”

Standing by his plan for the future, Michael re-iterated "nostalgia doesn't pay the bills", a statement he made previously in response to growing negativity surrounding the market.

He said: “Things need to change to keep the market relevant. There is sensitivity in that as well – we don’t want to rip the soul out of the market.

“It is a really iconic building in the town with so many memories associated with it. We do our best to keep that going. It provides a really important service to the people of Darlington.

“We need to be forward-thinking in the way we use this building. I think we are gradually feeling around in the dark to find that balance.”