Doing nothing is not an option for market

COUNCIL chiefs have met with stall-holders from Oldham, Royton and Shaw to plan the future of the borough’s markets.

Oldham Council has submitted a planning application to introduce an on-street market on Albion Street in Oldham town centre.

If permission is granted, then the proposals will see the introduction of gazebo-style street stalls.

But traders have raised concerns, fearing the flimsy structures will not withstand winter winds and cold weather. They say solid, long-term structures are needed instead. The meeting gave traders the chance to ask questions and see a sample stall to view the size and design.

The council insists the new stalls would provide more shelter from the weather and a more flexible and attractive environment for customers and traders.

As part of the planning process, there will be a detailed survey of traffic on Albion Street to identify the exact nature and timings of deliveries.

Traders will have an opportunity to comment formally and have individual discussions about their concerns.

Oldham Council’s deputy leader Jackie Stanton said: “I have spoken to many traders over the last few weeks who wholeheartedly agree that Tommyfield Market needs radical change to make it more attractive to new customers.

“They are also supporting what the council is trying to achieve and agree that doing nothing is not an option.

“We are contacting potential suppliers of the stalls about issues raised at the meeting and we will be contacting the traders again to discuss their concerns.

“The council is committed to ensuring that we consult closely with traders to ensure that what we have is a proposal which will help to ensure the future of Tommyfield as a key part of Oldham town centre.

Councillor Mohib Uddin, Cabinet member for regeneration, added: “Although the focus now is on Tommyfield, it is very important that traders from Shaw and Royton are involved now so that they can see the improvements we plan to put in place at Tommyfield.

“We are convinced they will want to have similar improvements when we look at modernising these markets next year.”

The council says the type of stall being proposed is already being successfully used at dozens of markets across the country.