Bolton Market’s outdoor areas and the indoor Lifestyle Hall reopened to the public today with a comprehensive range of measures to help people to maintain social distancing.
The market’s food halls have remained open throughout lockdown, in line with government guidelines.
Mirroring the success of the measures put in place for the food halls, similar social distancing strategies have also been implemented for the outdoor areas and Lifestyle Hall.
Market ambassadors are being positioned at entrances and exits to manage queues of shoppers. The number of people allowed into the outdoor market and Lifestyle Hall is being restricted to minimise risk and keep shoppers safe.
The outdoor market layout has changed, communal seating has been removed from the Lifestyle Hall, and public toilets will remain closed.
Signage reminding people about social distancing and floor markings is also now in place.
Regular tannoy announcements are being made to remind everyone to observe social distancing rules.
It is up to individual traders to decide when they want to reopen,
Hilary Fairclough, Bolton Council’s executive cabinet member for environmental regulatory services, said: “I am delighted that our outdoor and Lifestyle Hall traders will be reopening and wish them every success.
“The market will look different and I would ask people to remember to keep their distance - and be kind to each other.
“We will have a controlled system in place to minimise risk and keep shoppers and traders safe.”
During lockdown, food stall holders have been offering home delivery and click and collect services which many residents have described as a lifesaver.
Cllr Fairclough added: “Our food traders have remained open during the pandemic providing a vital service to the community.
“I am really proud of how our traders and staff have responded to the crisis and adapted by using social media and introducing new services.
“The market has gained lots of customers for the new click and collect and home delivery services, and we know our traders are looking to continue with them long after lockdown.”
The market is open to the public on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturday from 9am to 5pm. Key workers can gain priority access between 8am to 10am.