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Search the Public Notice PortalAS work begins on the site of the new Birkenhead Market, the traders have mixed views ahead of relocation. Whilst some “can’t wait” to move, others have been left “absolutely disgusted.”
The Wirral town’s historic market, which dates back to the 1830s, is set to find its new home in the former TJ Hughes site in the Pyramids Shopping Centre. Previous plans to take the market to the former Argos on Princes Pavements proved unpopular with traders and were shelved, with the former TJ Hughes proving a more popular alternative.
After a period of uncertainty and failed plans many traders are delighted to know where their future lays. Mike Eccles from Billy Hill Curtains, the longest-standing business in Birkenhead Market, told the LDRS he “can’t wait” to move to the new site in the Pyramids Shopping Centre. He added the current market is “half empty”, with little footfall.
This view was shared by trader Mark Jones who said: “We need a change. I think the move will be great business-wise and will help the market grow.” While Mr Jones has slight reservations about the new site not having a “proper market feel as it will be like a shop in a shop,” he concluded “a change is for the better.”
Clothes shop owner, Jin Dhillon said he is “really looking forward to the move after a few years of being in the unknown.” He added: “There’s less and less people coming in here now. The new place should have more footfall.”
Another trader, Mark Davey, said the new market “can’t be any worse than what it’s like now.” Mr Davey said he is pleased with the new location and is hopeful for more passing trade, but also raised concerns of a ‘shop in a shop’ feeling with the new market.
He did raise some concerns about the stall that will be located towards the back of the new market, and potentially hidden away. He said: “I think it’ll be ok if you’re at the front.”
Whilst many traders are content with the planned move, which is expected to take place by the end of this year, some traders in the market raised concerns with how the move has been handled, with some claiming they have been unable to secure a stall in the new market.
Trader, Valerie Hudson told the LDRS she won’t be moving to the new market as, she says, she’s been told there’s no room for her. Ms Hudson, who has been trading in the market for 25 years said she has been “absolutely disgusted” with how some traders have been treated.
Valerie, and a number of other traders, who did not feel comfortable being named, raised concerns over a new points system which traders have been scored with. Various traders said this system seemed to have been “made up,” with those in the market being left unsure what metrics were being used to grade them.
Responding to these concerns, a Wirral Council spokesperson said: “Relocating Birkenhead Market is key priority, and it is vital that we get this move right, both for traders and for the future success of Birkenhead town centre.
“Throughout this process we have worked closely with traders, providing regular communication, one-to-one discussions and ongoing support to help businesses prepare for the move and understand the options available to them. The overwhelming majority of current traders are moving to the new market, and we look forward to supporting them as they establish themselves in the new space.
“As part of the relocation process, decisions about the allocation of units have been made through a structured assessment process and within the practical constraints of the new building, and this has been communicated openly throughout. Our focus has been on working together to create a sustainable, vibrant market with the right mix of businesses to give the market, and the traders within it, the best possible chance of long-term success.
“We understand this is a significant period of change for traders, and that not everyone will agree with every decision. We remain committed to working with all businesses during this transition, and we are focused on creating a market that continues to serve residents, support local businesses and attract visitors for many years to come.”
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