Hobart’s popular Farm Gate Market could soon have a new home, with the city council set to vote on relocating the Sunday market from Bathurst to Liverpool Street.
Market operator Madi Peattie has been advocating for the relocation, briefing elected members at workshop meetings in December and March on increasing wind issues at the current site.
She said gusts funnelled between tall buildings on Bathurst Street were creating safety risks and operational challenges for stallholders and patrons.
Data from the Bureau of Meteorology indicates wind activity in Hobart has increased, particularly during spring in 2024 and 2025.
Stallholders have reported equipment being blown over and markets forced to close early.
“My stall has had tables and other equipment blown over,” one stallholder said in a testimonial to council.
They described the conditions as a “very stressful and, at times, scary situation” in windy weather.
Wind consultants Windtech identified Liverpool Street, between Murray and Harrington streets, as the preferred alternative, citing its low-rise buildings, flatter terrain and existing awnings.
A council report ranked the site highest in a multi-criteria assessment of five locations.
The market attracts up to 6,500 visitors each Sunday and is estimated to generate $31.2 million annually for the local economy.
It was ranked among the world’s top 10 farmers’ markets by Lonely Planet in 2025.
The relocation is expected to cost about $256,000 for power and water infrastructure, which the council says could also support other events.
DarkLab, which owns several Liverpool Street properties including the Odeon Theatre, has supported the proposal, saying it would complement the precinct and events such as Dark Mofo.
The report recommends any future operator at the new site be selected through a public, competitive process, rather than a direct transfer of the current licence.
The market has operated on Bathurst Street since 2014, with its current licence due to expire in October 2027.
If approved, council officers will begin site investigations and consultation with nearby businesses.
