Library Archives Research

On Tuesday afternoon Diana, Brittany and I visited Manly library to access their archives on Market Place.

Some of the key history:

1855 - Created?
It has existed since the earliest plans drawn up for Manly by Henry Gilbert Smith.
He envisaged that there would be a lane running parallel to the Corso which would be used for market

1900 - Markets Shut down
'Inspector of Nuisances' - shut down the operation of markets in the area due to
- Unsanitary business
- Offal
- Rotting fruit and veg
- Straying horses

1908
Proposal adopted by Manly council to erect fruit and produce markets in the Lane, supporting and highlighting some of the history of the site.

20th C
Market lane became home to small enginering companies and garages.

1995
Market Place (formally Market Reserve) opens new library
Library designed by Feiko Boumann, including paving area for a 'bustling piazza'

1997
Manly Council approves open air markets at Market Lane and Sydney Road intersections on weekends and public holidays
'To revitalise the town centre and backing of the Chamber of Commerce'

2005
'A rear entry service lane subject to frequent graffiti attacks'

Mural proposed in July 2005
Ruth Downes - sculpture and artist, to be commissioned by council
'Mural would brighten up drab lanes'

Now