The next step for the future of Liverpool’s markets has been confirmed with a number of “quick wins” identified.
The findings from a lengthy consultation exercise launched last year, compiled into a definitive report into the direction for the city’s market offer will be considered by Liverpool Council’s cabinet next month. An update to members of the culture and visitor economy committee by cabinet member Cllr Harry Doyle said “a number of quick wins” would be executed subject to executive approval in July.
Assistant Mayor Cllr Doyle said Liverpool Market’s Traders Association had backed the council’s approach and was “looking forward to seeing visible efforts to bolster our market offer, particularly the issue of footfall in St John’s Market.” In February, the findings of a survey with traders, market users and non-users were shared by Danny Collins, director of Savills’ economic team, which have helped form the basis of a long-term strategy for the city’s markets.
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Among the suggestions was the inclusion of a new city centre destination market “that is a must visit” - compared to sites in Lisbon and London. The redevelopment and relocation of existing sites including St Johns and Great Homer Street was also put forward.
In his written update to members, Cllr Doyle said Great Homer Street would be at the heart of the council’s bid for Levelling Up funding focusing on North Liverpool.
Cllr Doyle added that traders at St John’s Market have entered into mediation with the council over rent arrears and he was “positive” a solution would be found soon. The council was accused last month of 'misleading the city' over a deal in which they claimed to have gained control of the city's markets for £1.
In 2016 the council bought Geraud Markets Liverpool Ltd, the company that managed the city's markets. At the time the council said they paid just £1 for the company which was renamed Liverpool Markets Limited, (LML). LML managed well-known markets such as St John's in the city centre and Great Homer Street in Everton. The company entered into liquidation in May 2019.
Cllr Doyle said: “Coupled with the passing of our future strategy, and the delivery of some of the quick wins identified, I am hopeful that we will be able to increase footfall at our markets.” The plans for the city's markets will be discussed when the committee meets at Liverpool Town Hall next week.
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