‘Tired’ Newark market place set to become 'family destination' with extra £2m funding

Councillors described the square as 'embarrassing' when the market wasn’t being held

More than £2m of leftover Towns Fund money will likely be put into Newark’s marketplace to help revitalise it. Councillors described the square as looking “tired” and “embarrassing” when the market wasn’t being held.

The Newark Cultural Heart project is intended to create a focal point for the town centre for family days out, with space for regular events, outdoor dining and play areas. It was originally allocated £1.5m from the £25m Towns Funding which Newark was awarded by the Conservative Government in 2021.

However, a report by Newark & Sherwood District Council says: “It has become clear over the last 12 months that the current £1.5m budget would be insufficient to change the Market Place as originally hoped.”

A total of £2.2m Towns Fund money remains unspent, which is hoped would bring the market square up to scratch. The Towns Board and Newark District Council’s Cabinet have both agreed to reallocate the money, which will now require Government approval.

Councillor Paul Taylor (Lab), the portfolio holder for public protection and community relations, welcomed the change at the cabinet meeting on Tuesday (September 24). “The market square is the jewel in Newark’s crown, but it’s feeling tired. Other than two days, the market is embarrassing,” he said.

“We really need to bring that square up to date and make it something really attractive for the town. It will benefit the whole of the district by attracting people more than two days a week.”

He added the town council had seen “really good plans” for the extra money, which will be published at a later date. Councillor Emma Oldham (Grn), the portfolio holder for biodiversity & environmental services, was also excited about the change.

“The sketches show the square looking much more welcoming, family-friendly, greener and wildlife-friendly,” she said. “Investing in the heart of the town will have a ripple effect.”

A business case laying out the Newark Cultural Heart improvements will be brought back to Cabinet later this year. Newark & Sherwood District Council previously said: “A regular programme of events throughout the year in the marketplace will create Newark’s reputation in the area as a consistently good day out for all the family.

“The project will improve the public realm in and around the marketplace, adding more seating, more greenery and a more attractive entrance to the town centre that is easier for visitors to find.”