Market still at the heart of the city

Nov 6 2007 By The Journal

THE Grainger Market is in the heart of the city and an integral part of Newcastle’s Grainger Town. It is a Grade I-listed building and has an area to let of 38,000 sq ft, making it one of the largest market halls in the country. The redevelopment of the southern end of Eldon Square has led to many businesses which were formerly situated in the Greenmarket, relocating to the bustling surroundings of the Grainger Market.

Richard Grainger, builder and developer, constructed some of Newcastle’s finest buildings and streets during the 1830s, including the Grainger Market. It was the town’s first indoor market, and at the time of its opening in 1835 was considered the most spacious and magnificent market in Europe. The Evening Chronicle hailed it as “the most beautiful in the world”.

While times, names and fashions may have changed, the Grainger Market is still an authentic working market which has a variety of permanent stalls. It is a great place to have a bite to eat and watch the world go by.

This treasured market is as vibrant today as it ever was, with the addition of a unique space dedicated to art exhibitions, cultural events and themed markets. In fact you can still shop at the same units that sell the same sort of products that were available to our Victorian ancestors. The market still boasts the smallest Marks & Spencer in the world – having been one of the company’s first Penny Bazaars, opened in 1884.

The unique Weigh House, in Alley One, has also been a fixture since the 19th Century when all markets had to check the weight of all goods purchased.

These days 500 people per day use the Weigh House to check their own weight and are guaranteed an accurate and confidential service.

Local design guru Martin Greysmith recently scooped the prestigious Grainger Market Customer Service Challenge award and will receive a certificate and engraved plaque
in a special ceremony and photocall hosted by the Lord Mayor.

Martin’s company Amblegerm Jewellers, which produces beautiful individual design products, came top in a poll of 700 votes cast by a wide variety of stallholders between September 24-29 as part of National Customer Service Week.

The 170-year-old market has built its reputation on the friendly relationship between stallholders, their customers and market staff and the award honours this special rapport.

Coun Pauline Allen, executive member for culture, heritage, libraries and sport, said: “The Grainger Market prides itself on its excellent customer relations and the quality of its products and the council is delighted to acknowledge this as part of our focus on national customer service week.”