Nantwich Market is to undergo a “phased” re-opening as lockdown restrictions ease, Nantwich Town Council was told.
Councillors and traders are hoping to be back in the market hall under Government plans to allow “non essential” shops to re-open in June.
And council staff say up to 70% of traders in the market hall have indicated they wish to begin trading again as soon as possible.
A detailed plan was presented to councillors which shows how the indoor market will operate under ‘social distancing’ guidance.
Only the main indoor units will open to begin with, a one-way system will be in operation, and barriers and markings used to ensure social distancing.
Three members of council staff will be employed to ensure guidance is being met by traders and shoppers.
The market toilet block will be closed to the public.
Market hall layouts will be changed to reflect any further guidance issued by Government, says the report.
Outdoor stalls will be limited to 23 under the phased in period, again to ensure social distancing.
Councillors have also proposed a plan to phase in market rents as part of the re-opening.
During week one of trading, it will be free. Week two will be 50% rent, and week three will be full rent onwards.
A report to town councillors stated: “Since March 23, the council has supported traders by not charging rent.
“However, there is significant impact on council finances as a result of COVID-19, so it is proposed to introduce the charging of rent in line with the phased return to trading.”
Units around the edge of the market hall which pay non-domestic rates and traders are eligible to apply for the £10,000 business support grants from the Government during the lockdown.
Any traders having to self isolate with virus symptoms or who are shielded will not be charged rent while they cannot trade, the council said.
Meanwhile, it is hoped Nantwich Civic Hall will be open again in July offering a reduced service.
Many large scale events booked for the Hall in the summer months have been temporarily re-scheduled for October and November, councillors were told.
(Images courtesy of Jonathan White)
I really think you should consider opening the toilets as there are many people who find it difficult to spend time in town without that facility.
The lack of toilets mean we will not be shopping there in future . Many other places have managed to open their toilets without a problem .
Please can you list which stall holders will be open. Many thanks
Carry a hand sanitizer with you at all times as I have done since day one and use it after every transaction
It’s becoming increasingly hard for women, especially, to go out because of the lack of lavatories available. Please re-think this. It’s not at all difficult to come up with solutions.
That’s great news and I can’t wait to shop at the market again, but what is concerning is where are the public supposed to go if they get caught short and need the toilet or simply wish to wash their hands using water and soap as government guidance suggests?