In market for recovery
LEADING figures behind the borough’s markets have expressed their excitement as they set up shop again following months of lockdown.
Open air markets have been allowed to reopen under government lockdown easings since June 1, however some of the borough’s trading spots have taken additional time to ensure social distancing and other safety measures can be enforced - with a complete redesign of market layout required in some cases.
Susan Oliver, market operator at Rochdale Riverside Market on The Butts in the town centre, said it was vital returning customers complied with the measures and guidelines in place.
The market space has been adapted in line with government guidelines, with distance added between stalls, two metre markings on the ground
●●Customers and local traders are back at Rochdale Riverside Market in the town centre, with social distancing measures in place, after nearly three months of lockdown. and hand sanitiser available to traders and customers. She said: “I want visitors to have a safe experience whilst shopping but I am also doing my utmost to protect my traders. I hold regular meetings to make sure traders are following procedures and to see if they are happy.
“This is an anxious time for everyone and, unfortunately, this is going to have to be how the world operates for some time so it’s important that everyone follows social distancing measures.”
Susan has been at the helm of the market since October 2019 after it faced closure after 768 years of operation, with council bosses declaring it ‘not financially viable’ in 2018.
It now features a range of stalls, selling fresh fruit and vegetables, clothing, electrical goods and handmade crafts amongst other things, with almost 30 gazebos set up for the market’s first day post lockdown last Monday (June 15).
Despite the challenges of lockdown, Susan is preparing to welcome new traders to the market, including food stalls from Manchester-based Deebzstreetfoodz and Vanilla Dreams Bakery, and a new fashion stall from young trader Portia Probin.
Plans are also underway to harness young local talent with a new young traders’ market, which Susan is developing in partnership with Rochdale Development Agency.
She said: “Hopwood Hall College has some very talented students and there is no reason why the younger generation cannot bring their talent to the market and also earn a wage while doing so.
“There is nothing more rewarding than having your own business and the easiest way to start a business is by doing a market stall. This market is not just for students, but for any young person who is looking to start a business; if I find a young person who is committed and passionate and wants to build a business, I will personally financially support that young person.
“I want chefs, artists, paint sprayers, musicians, DJs, singers, bakers, arts and crafts, fashion, florists; anyone that can bring their talent to a market.”
She also hopes the future holds new opportunities for the market and the town centre as a whole, and added: “I am also looking for volunteers to help around the market and if I see potential, then hopefully if the market grows then I am willing to employ them. Rochdale has a new retail and leisure complex and I am hoping to bring a new vibrant market, not just for the older generation, but also for the younger generation.”