Artisan market launched

Artisan market launched

18 April 2018

DOWNPATRICK’S new artisan market launches this Saturday.

It is one of two new markets being unveiled in the spring as part of a pilot project being spearheaded by Newry, Mourne and Down Council. 

The other market will be launched in Newcastle on Saturday, May 5, and will be based outside the Newcastle Centre at Main Street.

The success of the award-winning farmers’ market in Comber persuaded the local authority to look at creating similar ventures locally, with hopes that the pilot project will confirm that both the Downpatrick and Newcastle markets can become firmly established.

The steering group behind the Downpatrick market is the town’s Community Collective, an umbrella organisation for a number of local groups, officials from Down Community Arts, the Down County Museum and local producer representatives.

The Downpatrick market will be based in the courtyard at the English Street museum and hopes are high that it will be a success, with those who visit also making their way to businesses in the town centre.

Council officials say the market provides an opportunity for high quality local artisan producers of food, non-alcoholic drinks, arts and crafts to promote and sell their products. 

The Downpatrick market takes place between 11am and 3pm and will be held on the third Saturday of each month, with those behind the project hoping it will be well supported to ensure it becomes permanent.

Council chairwoman, Roisin Mulgrew, has described the artisan market as an “exciting new initiative for Downpatrick.”

She continued: “It’s hoped the market will become a regular attraction and encourage visitors to the museum and the wider area. Local food producers and crafters have been keen to get involved and there should be quality products to suit all tastes. Artisan markets are growing in popularity and are a welcome addition to the attractions of the area.” 

Mrs Mulgrew said the local authority is committed to the so-called ‘make it local campaign’ and has no doubt the artisan market pilot scheme will make a valuable contribution to this initiative across the district. 

She added: “This new market will offer both residents and visitors the opportunity to purchase locally made produce and crafts and will also offer families an entertaining day out.”