Anticipation Builds As Cornhill Market's Opening Nears
The people of Lincoln are harboring mixed feelings as the long-awaited Cornhill Market on Sincil Street edges closer to its grand opening. The renovation of the market, which has taken over a year, was initiated by the City of Lincoln Council. The council hopes the modernised space will marry the inherent character of a traditional city marketplace with the allure of a premium food hall.
New Restaurants to Boost Cornhill Market
The newly refurbished Cornhill Market is expecting the establishment of a Caribbean-style restaurant and bar, Turtle Bay. The hotly-anticipated eatery is scheduled to be inaugurated on Friday, 22nd September, with the market itself soon to follow. The opening of this modernised marketplace has induced both eager anticipation and scepticism among the locals.
Mixed Reactions from Locals
Hykeham residents, Carl and Caroline Collins, aged 55 and 58 respectively, express their optimism for the redevelopment. Enjoying the free BBQ event hosted by Turtle Bay, Mr Collins commented:
"The Cornhill has gone from the worst bit of Lincoln to one of the nicest bits, it's really positive. I'm hoping Cornhill Market will be more upmarket because it was a bit rundown before. I'll be interested in the restaurants and the bars."
"The Cornhill is somewhere I'm proud to bring my friends that don't live here anymore. We've seen a lot of changes," added Mrs Collins.
However, not all locals share the same positive sentiments. Valerie Ratcliff, 68, questioned:
"If the new market is more high-end and very niche shops then people won't go in there. You expect fruit and vegetable stalls, meat and fish markets, and where you can get your sowing stuff. Niche shops are fine but in the middle of Lincoln, it needs to be available and priced for everybody."
In the meanwhile, younger locals and University of Lincoln students, Gabriella Rowe, 22, and Molly Taylor, 20, expressed their excitement about the indoor market and the prospect of supporting local businesses.
Cornhill Market's Winter Opening
The revamped Cornhill Market, earlier known as Lincoln Central Market, is set to swing its doors open in time for Christmas 2023, infusing fresh energy into Sincil Street's commercial spirit.