In 1892 Dublin City Council erected the Fruit & Vegetable Market building at a then cost of £100,000. It was designed by Spencer Hardy. In 1999 the council refurbished the lovely red
and yellow brick and limestone façade which is decorated with terracotta floral panels, vegetable and fish motifs and iron grills. The City’s Coat-of Arms is emblazoned over the main entrance. It was built to replace the numerous individual markets operating unhygienically and sporadically from various backyards to the rear of the Four Courts. The supply of such foodstuffs had previously been unreliable and expensive, and the market was opened to provide constant and reasonably priced goods. Supported by €9.5 million in Government aid, in September 2025 Dublin City Council
formally launched the comprehensive refurbishment of the Victorian Fruit and Vegetable Market. While historically a hub of wholesale activity, its use declined in recent decades as traders relocated to suburban facilities, and surrounding warehousing underwent change. The current redevelopment seeks to introduce a modern retail food market while preserving its Victorian architectural character when it will again provide a renewed, functional space for the community, traders, and visitors.
