The countdown for Belconnen’s long-awaited new Capital Food Market is finally coming to an end. The large-scale new market is set to open on December 6, with a range of new food venues and grocery stalls to suit both your cravings and weekly shopping list.
What Is The Capital Food Market?
The Capital Food Market is set to replace the Belconnen Fresh Food Markets, which has been in operation since 1976. It promises a modern design and a unique blend of vendors, showcasing some of the best food and produce Canberra has to offer.
The Capital Food Markets will offer over 40 leading fresh food providers and casual dining options, taking inspiration from traditional European markets. The new marketplace will be open seven days a week with extended trading hours into the evenings, offering shoppers a day-to-night experience.
The modern development and wide range of food and grocery options the Capital Food Market offers are set to be one of the biggest selling points for The Markets, a modern apartment complex with 315 residences currently under construction directly across the street.
The precinct is already surrounded by a Bunnings Warehouse, First Choice Liquor, Chemist Warehouse, PetBarn, BBQs Galore and other national retailers. The food, retail and grocery venues that will call the Capital Food Markets home, however, are still a surprise.
A Family-Orientated Community Hub
Beyond shopping and dining, the Capital Food Market is also designed to be a community meeting place for family and friends. The new development will include a large garden area and a playground, as well as spaces for outdoor dining.
According to Christopher Young, the general manager, “The plan is designed with a large seating and activation space in the centre of the market,” and Capital Food Market plans “ to use this space for pop-up events, seasonal festivals, cooking classes, and the promotion of local produce, seafood, and wine.”
The new markets will have over 200 basement parking spaces to accommodate the expected demand.
Preserving Despite Setbacks
Construction of the Capital Food Markets started in May 2022 and was initially supposed to be completed in April 2023. However, it’s been a slightly rocky road for the new venture.
The construction company originally in charge of the construction project, PBS Building, went into voluntary administration on 7 March 2023 with more than $25 million in debt. The Capital Food Markets was 1 of 11 active projects left in the lurch in the ACT, including The Market residential development across the road and The Melrose apartments in Woden.
The Canberra firm Construction Control quickly took over the Capital Food Market Project.
Are You A Belconnen Foodie?
The Capital Food Market is exciting news for Belconnen residents who love trying new eateries in their local region and will have us busy writing reviews! If you’re looking for a new restaurant to try in the Belconnen area in the meantime, check out our article on the Best Restaurants Belconnen has to offer.
We’re big foodies ourselves at The Canberra Post – make sure to check back regularly to stay updated with our restaurant reviews, hospitality news and other Canberra recommendations.
Are there places you would like us to review? Get in touch, and we will add it to our list!