Anxiety for traders over market's relocation
Several say they are not happy with being moved to the Cornmarket from September.
Traders are expressing apprehension regarding the impending relocation of Worcester's outdoor market, with some labeling the move a "bad idea." The market is slated to transfer from Angel Place to the Cornmarket starting in September, following a last-minute reprieve that addressed earlier uncertainties about its future.
Serena Read, an ornament vendor, voiced her concern, stating, "A lot of people who come to see us travel in on buses, and the bus station is around the corner." She added, "I've been a market trader for about 20 years and this is a lovely location, it's the best place for it. We don't know how it's going to go in the new location. This is our livelihood."
Adrian Wheatley, who sells perfumes, echoed these sentiments, asserting, "It should be left where it is - you can't get a better location than this." Wheatley revealed he had gathered 2,000 signatures on a petition from customers opposing the move. He fears that "A lot of people are going to walk up Angel Place, see no market and think 'that's it, it's gone'." Wheatley emphasized the market's long-standing presence, stating, "The market has been here for decades. If I wasn't taking any money from this location I wouldn't be here, it's as simple as that - the move is a bad idea."
Glenys Patrick, a seller of plants and produce, also expressed reservations, noting, "Some people, particularly older people, don't tend to go too far. It's a nice spot here and handy for the buses. I'd rather stay here."
Conversely, some traders are more optimistic about the relocation. Pete Round, from Greedy Pete's and Baketin, acknowledged the uncertainty but remained hopeful: "It's hard to know until we see it, exactly how it's going to be configured [in the new location]. It's a shame it couldn't carry on here, but [the Cornmarket] is a good location - we'll make the best of the new opportunity." Gemma Round, his wife, also expressed hope that the move would be successful.
Bluebell, the new operator of the market, which also manages markets in Droitwich and Evesham, has committed "to giving Worcester a high-quality weekly market." A spokesperson for Bluebell Events stated, "We are committed to giving Worcester a high-quality weekly market that supports the city's enterprise and creates a true destination for visitors." The company views the Cornmarket as a favorable alternative.
The previous operator, Cotswold Markets Limited, had cited declining footfall and increasing costs as reasons for withdrawing from the Angel Place arrangement. A spokesperson for the city council affirmed the authority's desire to maintain a profitable market in Worcester. The market will officially move from Angel Place on September 3rd.