A new firm has acquired the leasehold for Carlisle Market Hall.
The new leaseholder of The Market Hall and Eden Centre site – which includes the covered market, TK Maxx unit and the unit formerly occupied by Wilko – is Bearmont Group.
The Welsh firm Bearmont Group says its strategy is to rejuvenate undervalued shopping centres and enhance footfall and tenant mix to create sustainable retail spaces.
A new managing agent has been jointly appointed by Bearmont Group and building owner Cumberland Council. Mason Partners will manage the site on a day-to-day basis.
The council said it was currently exploring options to improve the hall’s experience and offer, including a potential communal seating area to help attract more people to eat and shop there.
The Market Hall is Grade II listed and an application for listed building consent has been submitted to gain in-principal approval for works that would affect the historic fabric.
Some concept designs for a communal seating area were included in the application to provide some context, the council said, but the designs would need to be developed further.
Councillor Barbara Cannon, executive member for financial planning and assets, said: “These recent developments at the Market Hall are really positive news for Carlisle and the wider Cumberland area.
“We look forward to working with Bearmont, the new managing agents and existing traders and stallholders to develop the site and help it reach its full potential.
“The Market Hall presents a huge opportunity to create an exciting destination for residents and visitors that would contribute to the vitality and sustainability of Carlisle city centre. It’s been a much-loved part of the city’s retail offer for generations and we’re excited to see what the future holds.”
Rob Lloyd, CEO of Bearmont Group, said: “The Market Hall represents the heart of Carlisle’s retail experience, and we see a tremendous opportunity to bring new energy to this historic site.
“This is part of our strategic approach – identifying shopping centres that have lost their way and giving them a new lease on life. We’ll be working closely with Cumberland Council to breathe new life into the indoor market, with an emphasis on introducing more local artisan businesses and an expanded food offering. We’ve already received interest from prospective tenants for the former Wilko site, and we hope to announce further developments shortly.”
Mr Lloyd said Bearmont’s focus was on supporting local retail and driving foot traffic by blending traditional retail with fresh, modern offerings.
He added: “Markets today need to inspire people to visit; we’re looking at introducing more artisan vendors, like butchers, fishmongers, and bakers, to restore that personal, vibrant atmosphere where shoppers can enjoy unique, quality goods and genuine interactions.
“We are keen to welcome smaller local businesses that require flexible, cost-effective space.
“As a private company, we can make quick decisions – often within a day or two – allowing us to respond rapidly to the needs of our tenants, especially independent retailers.”
