Street food trader SALT abandons Darlington Market stall

Dough – which offers pizzas, pasta and charcuterie - was lined up to operate out of the indoor town centre facility this year but has revealed it will now pursue other projects.

The Italian-style vendor is owned by directors Aarron and Mitchell Walbourne whose SALT - Street Food Kitchen and Bar, which opened on Grange Road two years ago, has taken Darlington by storm with its burgers, bao buns, burritos.

Plans for the trader to open a stall in the market were first revealed in January, but after several months without movement, SALT have confirmed they will instead focus on opening a new venue in Cockerton.

But despite the setback Market Asset Management (MAM), which leases the building from Darlington Council, says it is in conversation with an unnamed trader to move into the vacant stall instead.

Dough will be opening in Cockerton, Darlington. Picture: The Northern Echo

A spokesman for Darlington Markets operator Market Asset Management (MAM) said: “We have been informed by SALT that they have decided to concentrate on their new unit rather than move in to Darlington Markets and we wish them well.

“However, we are delighted to be in advanced discussions with another potential trader over letting this unit.”

Dough will be opening on West Auckland Road in Cockerton, Darlington, with staff relishing the pans for expansion.

Aaron said: “Since the lockdown, business has been flying for us and it’s not slowed down, so launching Dough complements the business nicely,”

And in a message to the market, he said: “We wish them well too and best wishes to them in the future and their plans going ahead.”

The market’s bosses say the recent influx of global cuisine has helped Darlington Markets’ ever-growing reputation as a community hub and events venue.

“This is an exciting time for the market. As well as its amazing food and independent retail offering, we are proud of Darlington Markets’ burgeoning reputation as a community events venue including hosting the North East final of the prestigious Young Traders Market for the first time on July 23,” a spokesman said.

“We have a number of options for prospective traders, and anyone interested in taking on space at the market should get in touch at hello@marketlettings.co.uk.”