CONCERN OVER LARGE GATHERINGS BUT

ALSO RELIEF FAMILIES CAN VISIT STALLS

NEWS that Nottingham’s Christmas Market will be going ahead this year under Tier 3 restrictions has prompted a mixture of criticism and approval from Post readers.

Nottingham City Council announced on Friday that this year’s festivities at the event in Old Market Square would see some changes due to the coronavirus pandemic.

No alcohol will be sold, stalls will be spread out across Old Market Square as well as on Long Row, and Smithy Row, and capacity will be limited if required.

The popular Sur La Piste, Altitude bars, ice bar and outdoor ice skating rink are not able to be staged this year due to the pandemic.

The market will be open every day from this Saturday from 10am to 9pm until Christmas

Eve.

Some readers said the market should not go ahead while the county is under the strictest set of Covid restrictions.

Jane Marrows posted: “I’m absolutely appalled at what is being proposed!

“Why increase the risk even further of us remaining in Tier 3 forever?

“It’s just a way of encouraging more people to mix.

Isn’t family mixing at Christmas enough of a risk to health and further restrictions?”

Heidi Slack agreed, saying: “I am unbelievably shocked at the fact that this is allowed to happen.

“My heart goes out for all the small local business that can adhere to social distancing and implement the measures set out by the Government but have been forced to close...yet a mass gathering like this is allowed?!”

Glenda Douglas said: “This is such a bad idea. “Students are being fined. Pubs, restaurants and other businesses are going under. We are in Tier

3!”

However, others have praised the council, saying that the market will provide a much-needed morale boost to Nottinghamshire before Christmas. Johny Ward said: “Finally some good news and something to look forward to lift morale.”

He added: “Christmas is all about the kids so I can at least take mine to this now.”

Kerry Ford said: “I’m so glad this is happening - a little bit of normality.” Michelle Tousson was more cautious in her approval, saying: “Very surprised this is going ahead as it will encourage large gatherings. “Surely this goes against restrictions set out in Tier 3? Although, it’s nice to think we can visit the city for a festive atmosphere.

“Again, for me it contradicts rules even though it’s outside.”

Councillor Sam Webster, portfolio holder for finance, growth and the city centre, said: “Despite the restrictions, challenges we’ve all faced and the need to do things differently this year, having a Christmas market is important for local people and the city’s local economy.

“It invites people into the city centre for a bit of festivity, to enjoy what the Christmas market traders can offer and encourages people to visit our other retailers in the city centre. “We’re working with retailers and our public transport providers to stay open later to prevent overcrowding, keep visitors safe on their way in and out of the city centre and during their visit.”

Having a Christmas market is important for local people and the city’s economy.

Councillor Sam Webster