THE new look Walled City Market was launched this week ahead of its much anticipated official opening in the Guildhall Square on May 7th.
The market builds on the Derry’s current market offering but brings together a wider collection of specialty crafters and producers selling everything from fine craft cheeses to artisan breads.
Launching the market, Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District, Councillor Elisha McCallion, said: “I am delighted to see the Walled City Market being revitalised. Derry City and Strabane District Council is dedicated to developing the current market offering here in the city to reflect the wealth of quality craft and food produce on offer across the district.
“Markets are essential for showcasing local produce, especially the goods of small businesses and producers, and with the wealth of fresh quality goods available here in the North West, it’s vital that we provide a platform for shoppers to support local producers.
“Food provenance has become increasingly important to people, and this will provide an opportunity for shoppers to source ingredients from their own doorstep.
“A successful local market is an asset for any city, both in terms of boosting tourism and the local economy.”
Business Manager with Derry City and Strabane District Council, Louise Breslin, said: “I’m really excited to see the launch of the Walled City Market in its new format.
“Our aim is to create a distinctive and speciality retail offering that will reinvigorate the market, generating a thriving environment for our traders and adding to our city’s existing retail offering.
“We are delighted at the level of support from local traders and we will continue to work with them to grow and improve the city’s market offering over the coming months.
“And we will be gauging the feedback from the public to ensure the product ranges reflect the growing demand for local produce and craft items.”
Gerard Curran from the Derry-Donegal Wheatgrass Company will be among the businesses setting out their stall on May 7th, and he looks forward to making the most if the opportunity.
“We are delighted to be a part of the up and coming Walled City Market. It’s a great opportunity to engage with new customers and we look forward to chatting to everyone and passing on the immense benefits of our product to local people.”
The Walled City Market has been running in the city since 2004, and the relaunch follows extensive consultation with local traders and new investment from Derry City and Strabane District Council.
From May 7th the new look market will trade monthly on the first Saturday of every month, from 9am – 4pm, in the Guildhall Square, featuring brand new stalls and wide selection of speciality goods.
Among the goods on display will be fresh meat, vegetables, artisan breads, cakes and craft coffees.
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