MARKET HALL
THE MARKET HALL
Over the years the covered Market Hall has adapted to changing circumstances and there has been a growth of service stalls. The Fish Market left Market Place in 1926 and was relocated to the south side of the Market Hall. It is now sited in Lock-up Yard. There is a Poultry Market in an annexe.
The covered Market Hall hides behind the Guildhall and is one of Derby’s greatest treasures. It is a fine example of Victorian architecture. With a spectacular vaulted roof, using iron supplied by a nearby foundry. Inside, there is a wealth of unusual, classic and traditional stalls, shops and café bars. The cost of the building was £29,000 and it was officially opened on 29 May 1866, by the Mayor, Frederick Longdon. At the opening ceremony, the Duke of Devonshire gave a speech and there were parades throughout the town. A choir of 600 performed the ‘Messiah’.
At that time the hall contained 38 butchers’ shops. As well as 150 stalls selling flowers, fruit, vegetables, books, newspapers, groceries, jewellery, sewing machines, sweets and toys. On the balcony, there were refreshment stalls and several drapers.
One problem was that when the weather was wintry both traders and shoppers felt bitterly cold as the building had no doors. However, following a deputation from the stallholders, the markets committee agreed to fit doors.
The interior of the Market Hall was completely refurbished in 1938. Almost 50 years later, in July 1987, it was closed again for major repairs and renovation. The objectives were modernisation. And the need to return it to its original appearance as a Victorian-listed building. The reopening was performed by HRH Princess Margaret in 1989 Further renovation work is ongoing at the time of writing.
Outside the Market Hall
As you leave the Market Hall at the southern end, you enter Osnabruck Square. The square got its name when Derby was twinned with Osnabruck in 1985. The policy of twinning towns/cities started after the Second World War. As a means of building strong links and friendships between similar-sized towns/cities in other countries. Special emphasis is placed on young people’s involvement and exchanging ideas to benefit local communities.
A stone pillar in the centre of the square announces that the German city is 500 miles away. Osnabruck was founded in 780AD, has many historic buildings and, like Derby, is close to beautiful countryside. As a result of the twinning arrangements, many events and activities have taken place connecting the two cities.
The fish market that once stood in the square was demolished in 1981. And relocated to the Lock-up Yard off the Corn Market.