COUNCILLORS will be asked to authorise spending £200,000 on essential repairs to Darlington's iconic Covered Market to make the building more attractive to a buyer.

Members of Darlington Borough Council’s cabinet will meet next week to discuss the market's future with stallholders admitting the uncertainty over the building's future has been difficult.

A council report outlines the process for selecting a partner and recommends that £200,000 be spent on essential repairs to enable the market to continue to trade and make it more attractive to a partner.

The move follows a recent meeting between traders and council officials, when it was agreed to invite expressions of interest from private sector companies to take over the running of the popular Covered Market, as well as the twice-weekly outdoor markets.

In an effort to improve conditions for traders and shoppers, essential repairs are proposed to the roofing and guttering to make the building watertight. The electrical system and fire alarm would also need to be replaced.

Traders will also be involved in the process of selecting a partner.

The proposal will include the Covered Market, Old Town Hall, shop units and outdoor market, while the town clock will remain the responsibility of the council.

Councillor Nick Wallis, Darlington Borough Council’s cabinet member for leisure and local environment, said: “Our discussions with traders have been very positive and we see this as a once in a lifetime opportunity to enhance Darlington Markets.

“Agreement on the process for selection is an important first step in our search for a private sector partner with whom we can deliver a refreshed, exciting and sustainable market - both indoor and outdoor - which traders and shoppers can continue to be proud of.”

Alex Blackham, acting chairman of Darlington Market Retail Stallholders’ Association, said: “It has been a tough time for all the stallholders. We have come through this and secured good working relationships with representatives from the council.

“Morale has been low amongst traders as they feared generations of hard work would be coming to an end and that family businesses would not be passed down to children and grandchildren. We need a big hug. And there is nothing like the ringing of a cash register to boost morale, so we need people to shop local and support their local markets."

Angela Smedley, National Market Traders chair for Darlington, said: “We traders recognise the need for change and improvement and welcome the opportunity to work together with the council in selecting a private partner."

The report will go before cabinet at its meeting on Tuesday, May 3.