THE Walled City Market has now been up and running for two months since it’s relaunch and has been going from strength to strength.
Working away behind the market scene has been Nicolle Walters, Derry City and Strabane District Council’s newly appointed Market’s Development Officer.
Responsible for the overall management of the market, Nicolle has played a leading role in the development and promotion of the market to the city and beyond.
In partnership with traders, Nicolle is dedicated to making the Walled City Market a success and making an impact on what the city has to offer both shoppers and visitors.
Speaking about the markets, Nicolle says; “We’re delighted with how the markets have been going to date.
“Our first market in May was dampened by the really wet weather, but morale was high and the relaunch of the Walled City Market was very positive.
“It was a wonderful opportunity for traders to see that the Council is fully behind this initiative and ready to support them on every level.
Thanks to the lovely weather and the dedication from traders and Council, June’s market was marvellous!
“There was a real buzz on the day and I was approached by a number of potential traders who expressed interest in becoming involved, which in itself was great feedback and showed us that already the Walled City Market experience was a very positive one.”
Following an extensive review of the Walled City Market in 2015, Derry City & Strabane District Council decided to invest in the market to support small businesses and give them the opportunity to trade in the City Centre.
The Council recognised that market activity would also help generate more footfall to the commercial areas surrounding the Guildhall Square.
Investment in the market would also create common ground in the community and add another dimension to the City’s retail offering, while creating a distinctive flavour and feel to the visitor experience.
Nicolle added: “The Walled City Market offers the best of local artisan traders, offering visitors a friendly shopping experience with a wide selection of speciality foods ranging from fresh fish, homemade jams and preserves, cakes and treats, plus handmade craft products.
“We have a fantastic variety of quality local produce, from well-established and permanent stalls such as C&M’s Pantry and Pauls Handmade Delights, to newcomers such as Amara Burt Dexters, Molloy’s Fish Market and Garden Vogue.
“We’re also delighted to recently welcome Kennedy Bacon and Fitzgerald Candles on board.
“We want the market to be a fun experience for all the family and children’s entertainment will play a part at each market, with activities such as balloon modelling, pony & cart rides and a petting farm.
“We also want to use the market as a platform to showcase new local talent. In June we had the privilege of having Nineteen 80’ Something’ perform, a teenage band from Strabane and we would encourage other artists to get in touch if they are interested in performing.
“The Walled City Market offers the perfect backdrop for local people to come together, enjoying local produce and supporting local talent.”
The market will operate from 10am to 4pm, on the first Saturday of every month with the next one scheduled for Saturday, 02 July.
Anyone interesting in finding out more about trading or performing should contact Nicolle at[email protected] or Tel: 02871 308466
For further information visit www.derrystrabane.com/Subsites/Walled-City-Market/Welcome
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