Manchester City Council is exploring plans to bring pop-up markets to high streets across the city, potentially replicating the success seen in suburbs like Chorlton and Withington.
Expansion plans
Moston and Newton Heath are among the areas being considered for the initiative, which could be introduced wherever there is sufficient trader interest and an operator willing to run the market. Newton Heath previously had a permanent market that closed after more than 80 years of operation.
Councillor Gavin White, the city's lead on housing and regeneration, said: "We are keen to support markets all over Manchester because they add a real vitality and vibrancy to our high streets and district centres, enhancing and complementing the shopping offer in our communities."
Proven success
Pop-up markets have already helped keep high streets busy in parts of Manchester, supporting local traders. In Withington, a pop-up market was introduced alongside a major revamp of Copson Street aimed at improving access for pedestrians and cyclists.
Coun White added: "Alongside our popular permanent markets in Longsight, Harpurhey and Gorton, the growth of pop-up markets has helped attract more visitors and drives significant footfall in district centres such as Withington, Wythenshawe, Chorlton, Levenshulme and other locations across the city, including the Northern Quarter."
Supporting traders
The councillor noted that pop-up events offer new traders a chance to grow their businesses without the overheads and risks of a permanent premises. "Pop-up markets can play an important role in our ambitious plans to reenergise all our high streets in every part of our city and we want to work with operators and traders that can help create destinations in our communities and drive economic growth," he said.
Other efforts to improve high streets across Greater Manchester include a £20m high streets fund announced by mayor Bev Craig on Monday (August 10), who said there are 'too many extractive or low-quality businesses on too many of our high streets'.
