When I was elected mayor, one of my priorities for my term was revitalising central Geelong, and a new market will make big strides in our vision for our city’s future.
I have spoken considerably about the need for a Salamanca-style market in central Geelong, and I’m pleased that we’re moving towards getting it up and running this spring.
This weekly market will work towards transforming Little Malop Street Central into a vibrant, bustling hub and a welcoming public space, drawing people back to the heart of our city.
The market will offer residents and visitors a curated selection of stalls celebrating our local produce and artisanal goods, highlighting the talented producers and makers who call Greater Geelong home.
This initiative aims to promote unique, locally made and high-calibre offerings, reflecting creativity, sustainability and Geelong’s UNESCO City of Design status.
It will be a big win for local designers, artists, musicians, and creative entrepreneurs to get involved and showcase their wares and talents.
In addition, the market will support our community with the current cost-of-living situation. By promoting locally made goods and allowing residents to shop directly with suppliers, we’re fostering a more resilient local economy.
This market is a proactive and important step in revitalising the Market Square area.
It’s not a temporary fix but a genuine commitment to making the most of what we have as future developments take shape.
It will contribute to the beautification of Moorabool Street, utilising the existing open space at Little Malop and attracting both locals and visitors.
This event will be supported by other activations that are in the planning phase. We are working with our gardens team to add low level garden spaces in the area, making central Geelong a more attractive place to visit, shop and socialise.
Safety is also paramount. We’re actively exploring opportunities to implement additional street lighting and CCTV to ensure a positive and secure open space for everyone.
This market is the first step to a brighter future for Little Malop Street Central.
We will be seeking expressions of interest from stallholders very soon, so stay tuned and get ready to pitch your local business.
In the meantime, we are looking for a qualified market operator to run this exciting initiative. You can help make this market a major draw card to central Geelong for both residents and visitors.
We are inviting proposals from operators to establish, program, and manage this project, and we’re eager to hear from you.
The Request for Proposal is out now, and I strongly encourage anyone interested in operating this market to submit a proposal.
I look forward to the announcement of the successful applicant and seeing our community work together for an improved central Geelong.
If you’re ready to make a significant impact on the revitalisation of our central business district, I urge you to get your submission in quickly. Proposals close at 5pm on Friday July 25.
We are excited to get the ball rolling on this project.
To submit your proposal, head to geelong.link/tenders
