Interested parties are urged to gives their views on proposed changes to the Outdoor Market in Stockport.
The consultation began on 27th September will allow people to have their say on a range of proposals to maximise this unique Outdoor Market to ensure it is being used to its full potential.
Councillor Iain Roberts, Stockport Council’s Executive Member for Economic Development and Regeneration, said:
“The Council has invested significantly in improving the buildings and infrastructure around the Market Place over the last 10 years, including the refurbishment of the Produce Hall and Covered Market Hall. “However, at the same time, changing retail patterns have impacted on the number and range of stalls available on Stockport Market, particularly on the outdoor market. We want to make sure that this area is being used in a way which allows it to achieve its full potential.”
Trader and customer feedback has indicated that the Council needs to significantly improve the retail offer on the outdoor market to attract new shoppers and encourage more people to visit the Market Place.
Suggestions for improving the Outdoor Market include: Changing the layout of the outdoor stalls to improve the accessibility and appearance of the market. Introducing theme days which focus on particular products. Developing a strong and varied food offer to act as a central ‘anchor’ for the market. Introducing an event programme into the Market Place.
To allow the Council to put these suggestions into practice and to achieve the longer term aims for the Market and Market Place, the Council is proposing changes to the operation, trading days and layout of Stockport Market. These proposals have been developed in partnership with the Market Improvement Steering Group, which includes five trader representatives. We aim for the proposed changes to be in place by 1st April 2014.
To give your views on the proposals visit www.stockport.gov.uk/haveyoursay or collect paper questionnaires from Stockport Tourist Information Centre in the Market Place. Paper questionnaires can be returned by post or place in the collection point at Stockport Tourist Information Centre.
There will be an information display in the Covered Market Hall between 1st and 25th October, with all consultation materials and maps. Members of the Council’s Market Team will be available to answer questions between 10.00am and 12noon on Friday 4th and 10.00am and 12noon on Friday 18 th October.