Dundee is buzzing with the recent announcement of Mill Market, a new street food market set to open at the historic Tay Works on Brown Street.
The market promises a vibrant communal dining experience with an array of international street foods, spearheaded by local entrepreneur Andy Prior, along with Sam and Kate Carter-Larg of St Andrews’ renowned Cheesy Toast Shack.
As excitement mounts, some Dundonians have raised mixed opinions, suggesting alternative locations and debating the suitability of Brown Street for the venue.
Location was a hot topic
Several residents applauded the concept but expressed reservations about the location.
“I like the idea of a food market; however, it seems too far out of town and lacks footfall,” one commenter remarked, adding that “a better location would be The Keiller Centre. It’s the centre of town that needs rejuvenated.”
Another voiced support for the Brown Street choice, noting that it’s only “a five-minute walk from the centre. Tons of parking around the area, student accommodation surrounding it, gyms and businesses all over.”
This commenter anticipated the market would be busier than expected due to its proximity to key city spots, including pubs from the Hawkhill down to the West Port.
Other locals were quick to suggest additional venues, like “part of the old M&S building in the city centre” or “the old Tesco building that’s supposed to become a sports shop – for the last five years!”
The Keiller Centre was also touted as an alternative among people who voiced concerns about the location, with many stating that it would be more accessible.
Another user agreed that “The Keiller Centre would be a great venue,” while others championed the benefits of the Tay Works location and encouraged support regardless of any perceived inconvenience.
“Great location, as others have said,” one commenter wrote.
“Plenty of parking, transport links, and thousands of students to pit money through the tills.”
Dundee 'definitely needs something like this'
Public reactions remained largely positive, with enthusiasm for the fresh concept shining through. Comments like, “Very exciting! Dundee definitely needs something like this,” and, “Sounds fab! Can’t wait,” were common among supporters.
Some residents also suggested ideas to enhance the market experience, such as featuring craft beer selections similar to those in food markets across cities like York.
“With craft beer like the one in York,” suggested one local, adding a hopeful thumbs-up to the sentiment.
Several residents mentioned examples of food markets in places like Liverpool, Southport, and Blackpool, emphasizing their success and the potential appeal of such a venue in Dundee.
Despite a few critiques on the location, the general consensus appears optimistic.
With Dundee undergoing a broader transformation through projects like waterfront development and the forthcoming Eden Project, Mill Market’s plan to repurpose Tay Works signals a fresh chapter in the city’s cultural evolution.
As the planning process continues, Mill Market’s supporters and sceptics alike will be watching to see how this bold new venture shapes Dundee’s future.
If all goes as planned, the historic Tay Works could soon become a bustling hub of flavour and community, bridging the past with the city’s modern identity as a cultural destination.
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