OUGD603 - Grainger Market identity - Intro to the market

Grainger Market is a Grade I listed covered market, constructed as part of the 19th century redevelopment of the city. It was designed by John Dobson which is a famous name around Newcastle for creating a neoclassical style in the city and was opened in 1835, making the market 181 years old.

The market was divided into two parts, the eastern section, which was a meat market laid out in a series of aisles, and the western section, which was a vegetable market constructed as a large open-plan hall. The original uses of the market for meat and vegetables have since changed considerably, but there are still a number of butchers' stalls there that are a ever lasting visual of the Grainger Market for me. Alongside craft stalls, jewellers and florists, you can find high quality butchers, artisan bakers, green grocers as well as street food traders, coffee shops, retro games shops, record stores and cafés, with something for everyone.

As the market has changed considerably it now enjoys a bright, light, vibrant and buzzing atmosphere. Achieving a balance between a market’s heritage and the needs of a new generation of shoppers and traders isn’t always easy, but it’s fair to say the Grainger Market’s getting it right.

Looking to the future for the market I found out that Newcastle Council stills recognises Grainger Market’s continued importance on a business, retail, consumer and tourism level. Therefore they are rewarding the market £2.66 million to help regenerate the space, but the main focus of this regeneration is repairing the main halls roof which will not only help protect this important asset but will also enable Grainger Market to develop and flourish for years to come.