Changing times and changing places for market halls and covered markets

Purpose – This paper offers two short case studies with the aim of showing how two local authorities are tackling the problems of the decline of market halls and covered markets within UK towns and cities. Design/methodology/approach – The paper begins with an outline of the origin of market halls and covered markets and a review of the reasons for their recent decline. These two sections provide the contextual framework for the case studies of the Grainger Market in Newcastle and the Market Hall in Chester. The paper draws its empirical material from planning documents posted on the world wide web by the two respective local authorities and by visits to both markets. Findings – The Grainger Market has been facing a number of problems relating to environmental quality, the failure to modernise the retail offer and poor relationships between the market traders and the local authority. A phased refurbishment programme and the introduction of a more active management style are bringing a greater sense of vitality to the market. Chester City Council have made application to close the market hall as part of a wider central urban redevelopment plan and here the focus is to the construction of a spacious new market in a high profile location. While the two case studies offer illustrative examples of attempts to revive market halls and covered markets it remains to be seen to what extent their refurbishment and redevelopment can play a key role in enhancing the viability and vitality of town and city centres. Originality/value – The paper provides an accessible case study review of the ways in which local authorities in the UK are looking to address the decline of the market halls and covered markets that were once a dominant feature of the urban retail structure in many towns and cities.