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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
National
Stephen Topping

The Greater Manchester market hailed as a model of success for post-Covid towns

A market hall given a new lease of life as a social enterprise is being hailed as a model of success for the future of towns.

Radcliffe Market was refurbished by Bury Council in 2014 before being taken over by a community benefit society four years later.

Since then, the market has won plenty of fans, with its regular Friday food nights and its focus on ethical trading.

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Now, the market features in a new report from international law firm Withers as a leading example of how communities can rebuild their high streets after the pandemic.

Jeremy Wakeham, CEO of the Withers Business Division and a commercial real estate partner, said: “Without doubt the Covid-19 pandemic has worsened an already challenging situation on our high streets and accelerated the need for action.

"Yet there is hope and opportunity for those willing to innovate and collaborate – like the team behind Radcliffe Market.

Radcliffe Market was taken on as a social enterprise in 2018 (Manchester Evening News)

"Thriving high streets of the future will not rely on retail alone but, like Radcliffe Market, will offer a carefully curated mix of services that meet the community's demands.”

The report praises Radcliffe Market for focusing on fresh, local produce, the environment and putting the community at the heart of how it is run.

It is also praised for encouraging all of its market traders to follow the 'slow food' movement principles which preserve biodiversity, sustainability and ensure animal welfare without harming human health.

The market also gives back to the community by donating 25% of members' fees to those who need it in Radcliffe, while also providing local services and an events space.

A national survey from Withers found that 70% of people are concerned about their high streets following the pandemic, while 52% fear their favourite restaurants closing and 33% are worried about the future of independent traders.

It also found that 46% want their local authority to take steps to improve the high street.

Mr Wakeham added: "Our research has shown that people really do want their local area to succeed.

"Coming out of lockdown, and spending more time in their local high street, they want to have a community hub on their doorstep where they can shop, socialise, work and be entertained.

“What is also fundamentally clear is that local authorities, landlords and communities must create new partnerships and ownership models that will not only serve the varied needs of those living in the area but will also create destinations that attract both visitors and consumers."

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