The team responsible for the management of Barnsley’s historic and thriving market were presented with the prestigious ‘Market Team of the Year’ (large market) award at the National Association of British Market Authorities (NABMA) conference earlier this week.
The award recognises the pivotal work the team has done to maintain and grow Barnsley Market, bringing in new traders, celebrating the 775th anniversary of the market charter, and creating a vibrant community atmosphere.
In 2016, Barnsley Council began work to redevelop Barnsley town centre with the creation of The Glass Works shopping and leisure destination. A key part of the project was the building of a new market hall at the heart of the development, replacing the previous structure that was opened in the 70s.
The Glass Works fully opened in 2021 and has gone from strength to strength ever since. Footfall for The Glass Works and Barnsley Market was 6.8 million in 2023, a 22.5% increase compared to the previous year, and the occupancy rate for Barnsley Market is currently 96%, one of the highest in the country.
Cllr Robin Franklin, Cabinet Spokesperson for Regeneration and Culture at Barnsley Council said: “It is fantastic to see the work that has been done by the Barnsley Market team recognised with this prestigious national award, especially in the year we have celebrated the 775th anniversary of Barnsley being presented with its Market Charter.
The town centre has gone through huge improvements over the past 5 years with the creation of The Glass Works, and a key priority through the whole process has been retaining Barnsley’s famous market and creating an environment where it can continue grow into a modern, thriving market.
Barnsley Market is attracting thousands of coach visitors from across the country, already achieving the highest number in over a decade so far this year. Shoppers are coming from across Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, the North East and North West to experience everything Barnsley has to offer, and leaving with smiles on their faces and bags full of shopping.”
In presenting the award, NABMA said: “The Barnsley Markets Team exemplifies the strength of teamwork in driving market success. By blending tradition with modern retail strategies, they have created a thriving market space that honours its heritage while fostering new growth. Their efforts in attracting new traders and engaging the community have been outstanding.”
