Re: Re: Milk Market

New-look Milk Market to be unveiled in Limerick this Saturday after €2m redevelopment (Limerick Leader)

By Kevin Cronin

THE NEW-LOOK Milk Market will finally be unveiled this Saturday, when members of the public get a first glimpse of the €2 million redevelopment under a massive half-acre white canopy.

The all-weather venue will feature four new shops and a new mezzanine seating area overlooking the market’s main courtyard, with electricity and water at all stall positions for the first time.

David O’Mahony, Chairman of Limerick Market Trustees, said: “the Milk Market, which was established in 1852 and is amongst the oldest markets in the country, now has the most up-to-date facilities of any market in the land”.

The new weekly line-up includes a new City Market on Fridays from 11am to 7pm; the Saturday “Famous Food Market” from 8am to 4pm; the “Riverside Variety Market” with arts and crafts, antiques and food every Sunday from 11am till 4pm; and a new “Flower and Garden Market” on Bank Holiday Mondays from 11am to 4pm.

“These upgraded facilities have already attracted new, award-winning food producers to establish a full-time presence there. They have also enabled the roll-out of an extended programme of markets and events at the Milk Market,” Mr O’Mahony added.

Two new businesses joining the Milk Market are Country Choice Delicatessen from Nenagh and Ponaire Coffee from Annacotty, who will start operating full-time retail outlets when the site re-opens.

Long-established Milk Market traders, Sallymills Artisan Cakes and Desserts and Fleur de Sel Crêperie will expand their operations at the new Milk Market, alongside new additions like Knockara Patés, Quarrymount Free Range Meats and Spanish Point Sea Vegetables.

“This level of commitment by such high-calibre food firms serves as a huge vote of confidence in the new Milk Market, particularly during the current economic climate,” Mr O’Mahony said.

The refurbished Milk Market is widely seen as a huge leap forward in the economic recovery of Limerick and a significant boost to other businesses in the city centre.

The distinctive white canopy, weighing 1.8 tonnes, is the biggest single-support canopy in Ireland and is held aloft by a 79-foot-high, five-tonne steel column. This is around the same height as an eight-storey building.

As a six-day-a-week venue, the Milk Market will continue to add midweek markets to its programme of events, from antique and fashion shows to classical concerts and pet shows.

Further information on the Milk Market’s constantly-updated offerings can be found on their newly-designed website: http://www.milkmarketlimerick.ie 😎

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