Understand
New private partner to run loss-making Lincoln Cornhill Market
Overview
A private commercial partner is to be appointed to run Lincoln's Cornhill Market, which has been losing money since its £8m refurbishment in 2024. While the city council will retain control of the market, the new partner will cover all costs and keep all income following a council decision based on advice from retail experts.
Key points
- Lincoln's Cornhill Market underwent an £8m refurbishment in 2024 but has been losing money since.
- A newly appointed commercial partner will cover all operational costs and keep all income, while the city council retains overall control.
- A recent review showed low occupancy with 69% of stalls rented out, though this was up from a low of 38% in 2025.
- Councillor Joshua Wells stated confidence in the market's future under the new model and strategy.
- Experts and shoppers cited factors such as high costs, post-Covid trading conditions, and a shift in shopping habits contributing to the market's struggles.