Newmarket's market tradition stretches back to the 1670s, when the area was laid out as a planned market for Dublin. Since then, it has been a place of markets, trading and community life in the Liberties.

When Newmarket was redeveloped, markets were presented as a central part of the vision for the area and a defining feature of its regeneration. They were described as being at the heart of Newmarket's identity and future, with the redevelopment promising more, not less, market space. Plans and promotional material referred to flexible indoor market spaces, traders sharing stalls on different days, indoor market areas opening onto the square, and the creation of a vibrant market destination.

Today, the Newmarket Flea has helped reestablish a thriving outdoor market, attracting traders, collectors, craftspeople and visitors from across Dublin and beyond.

The purpose built Market Hall in The Eight Building was intended to be the dedicated social and community element of the development, alongside artist studios, rather than simply another commercial unit.

Instead, despite being completed in 2021, it has remained boarded up and unused.

This is despite the success of the outdoor market and ongoing demand for community market space. Bringing the Market Hall into use would provide a year round indoor market, supporting independent traders, local enterprise, community events and cultural activity while complementing the existing outdoor market in the square.

A purpose built market hall should not lie empty while a successful community market thrives outside its doors.

The return of an indoor market would secure its future as a vibrant destination for markets, culture and community life in the Liberties.

We call on Patrizia, as owners of the Market Hall, and Dublin City Council to work together to ensure that the Newmarket Market Hall is brought into use for its intended community market purpose.

If you support the opening of the Newmarket Market Hall, please sign this petition.