New prohibition-themed bar takes shape at Darlington Market

The transformational works at the town centre venue are part of plans from operators Market Asset Management (MAM) and Darlington Borough Council for the venue to grow as a food, retail, and live entertainment destination.

Phase two of the redevelopment, which began in August 2022, includes a revamped shop front design and entrances, a new shop floor café, new public and trader toilets on the ground floor and new toilets to the basement.

And today images were released of the progress made regarding a new addition to the venue – The Vault, a basement prohibition-themed bar.

Ahead of an estimated opening in the spring 2023, work is now underway on the finer points and appearance of the bar which will offer craft beers and real ale as well as cocktails.

The new bar under construction at Darlington Market (Image: The Northern Echo)

Operators MAM also confirmed it will have a New Orleans-inspired jazz music theme including live performances. And small plates and charcuterie will also be available at the bar which is set to open Thursday to Sunday 12-11pm.

Six 'street food' traders opened when the market was revamped in August 2021, but only two (Spud Gun and Manao Thai) from the existing launch now remain. Several traders have left and replaced since it reopened in August 2021, either relocating to elsewhere in the town or ceasing trading all together after.

Read more: Darlington Market's 15 traders that have either closed or relocated

MAM has faced criticism from former traders and customers due to the changes, but market bosses are confident the changes are for the good.

Works have seen the exterior of the building revamped with a new black and cream colour scheme replacing the old green one complete with traditional handwritten signage lovingly crafted by local artist and sign writer Ste Robson.

An old walled-off area has been demolished to create a new glazed space which will be complemented with a new café in 2024.

MAM’s Darlington General Manager, Michael Harvey said: “It is fantastic to see the Phase 2 development’s impact and the improved environment for visitors coming here – we have managed to keep everything open as usual and minimised disruption.

“The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, and it is so exciting seeing The Vault bar taking shape which will be another superb addition to Darlington Market as part of our unflinching desire to make it a place home to wonderful independent traders and a place where people love to shop, eat and drink and enjoy entertainment.”

New paintwork taking shape outside the market (Image: The Northern Echo)

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Councillor Jonathan Dulston, leader of Darlington Borough Council, said: “It’s exciting to see the progress made in the market and I look forward to seeing the finished results. The addition of street food has been well received by visitors since it opened and The Vault in the basement will only add to the appeal for people looking to try something new.

“The market hall is at the very heart of Darlington and these works are helping to restore some of its former glory, while making it a modern venue that appeals to a wide audience, day and night. We want Darlington town centre to be a vibrant and welcoming place, and these works at the market will help to create that inviting atmosphere.”