Latest plans for Douglas market hall should see a vibrant public facility that retains the existing cafe and butchers but offers an exciting arena for exhibitions and other attractions.
Councillor David Ashford, who is chairman of the housing and public works committee and councillor for Victoria ward, said the new partnership between Douglas Council, which owns the building, and the Isle of Man College’s art department should provide a boost to the building and the town’s North Quay area.
‘It’s great the college has come forward and I’ve been impressed with their ideas and enthusiasm,’ he said. ‘Their art course is popular and over-subscribed so it is a perfect opportunity for them to expand.’
The college will be able to use vacant units in the building – which will remain open to the public – and stage events like exhibitions and fashion shows in the main hall area.
In 2012-13 Councillor Ashford said the market was subsidised by rate payers to the tune of £18,062 and the new agreement should see this reduced. Surveys are also being done to assess if the basement could be made fit for use.
Craft fairs, farmers’ markets and specialist markets will continue to be held in the market hall as previously. The agreement with the college is initially for a year with an option to renew.
‘The market has been in decline. We could have taken the easy option, shut it down and sold the building,’ he said.