Published on 29 July 2020
Plans to keep a temporary market in Glossop close to the current site in the town centre now look set to happen following discussions with traders.
The refurbishment of two vacant retail units in the Market Arcade and locating five cabins in the Arcade for traders to use is now the preferred alternative to enable the market to continue whilst the Market Hall is temporary closed for essential repairs.
High Peak Borough Council announced plans to replace the roof and renew the electrical and fire safety systems at the Market Hall last year. The roof at the Municipal Buildings will also be replaced as part of the project which is the next phase of significant investment in the town's heritage halls following the completion of phase one works at the Town Hall.
Tenders from companies interested in doing the work are now being evaluated with the work set to start in the autumn.
The Council has pledged all along to support traders by providing alternative arrangements for the market to continue and had been looking at the possibility of using a vacant unit at Wrens Nest.
The impact of the Covid-19 lockdown and subsequent restrictions impacted on progress with this option but has allowed the Arcade alternatives to be identified and explored.
Deputy Leader and Executive Councillor for Regeneration, Tourism and Leisure, Damien Greenhalgh, said: "We remain committed to providing a temporary market in Glossop whilst the essential work to renovate the Market Hall is carried out.
"Covid-19 has, understandably, had an impact on our plans as it has on so many other aspects of our lives. On a positive note, it has meant that in the last few weeks we have been able to explore the availability of the vacant retail units in the Market Arcade and providing cabins in the Arcade for those traders interested in relocating.
"We believe this is a feasible option which would keep traders close to the current market site and in the centre of the high street - and it's an idea which the traders themselves have approached the Council with.
"We'll continue our discussions with the traders so we can progress this option as quickly as possible and have the temporary arrangements in place ahead of the work starting on site in the autumn."
