A brand new market and food hall less than an hour from Manchester is preparing to open its doors this weekend. The Congleton Market Quarter (CMQ) is bringing back to life a series of derelict buildings that have stood empty for a decade.
Opening its doors on Friday, 17 November, the new hub will host a number of bars, eateries and artisan markets, as well as workspaces and outdoor areas. Situated between Princess Street and Mill Street, the redevelopment represents a significant milestone in the Cheshire town's revitalisation.
For its grand opening weekend, there will be a number of activities and events taking place, while vendors will be serving up everything from craft beer and cocktails to mouth-watering smoked BBQ meats, Neapolitan pizza, and tantalising Ethiopian curries. There will also be a inaugural market day on Saturday, followed by a night of acoustic music on Sunday evening.
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Founder Nick Hynes has said the scheme will "redefine Congleton town centre centre and add value to the entire town". Working with the town's grassroot high street campaign group Totally Stockport, the aim is to transform the CMQ into the thriving hub of Congleton, whilst supporting independent businesses and reclaiming the town's historic market area.
The Cheshire town has a long and storied history as a market town. It was first granted the right to have weekly markets and annual fairs in the 13th century, and while fairs were held infrequently, people would come from all over the area to buy and sell their goods in the town.
Work on The Congleton Market Area began last year, beginning with clearing the old, derelict buildings. The on-site team have worked to keep and restore historic features that hold part of Congleton’s past, resulting in buildings with a touch of character which will house the heart of the development adjacent to the existing outdoor and indoor markets.
When it opens its doors this weekend, Congleton Market Quarter will become home to eight independent food vendors. Those involved in the project include a number of established concepts including Zumuku Sushi, Wood Fire Smoke Pizza and Bollington Brewing Co.
They'll be joined by Gezana Ethiopian Street Food, Phukt, Smokin’ BBQ, Brook Lane Coffee Co and R&G’s Tap House. Complemented by a weekly programme of artisan markets and live music, Marketing Manager Michael Potts believes, "The CMQ will be a place worth travelling to, benefiting businesses across the town."
As well as food and drink, the celebrations this weekend will continue with an inaugural independent market on Saturday from 10am to 4pm, followed by the Sunday Service acoustic session from 7pm to 9pm. These events will become regular weekly fixtures, alongside their 'Totally Tenner Wednesday', offering selected dishes and drinks for just £10.
Going forward, there will be Christmas markets on the last Friday of every month in November and December from the 24th November onwards. These will be night markets that that run from 4-9pm.
“The CMQ is a destination venue that will rely on creating unforgettable experiences for those who visit, beyond the amazing food and drink they enjoy," added Ged Lynch, the CMQ Hospitality Consultant.
"A weekly programme of events will keep momentum in the space, with everything from artisan markets to live music. The CMQ is set to be a place worth travelling too and the hope is that will benefit businesses across the entire town."
