After the sudden closure of Bury Market’s indoor stalls yesterday – not including the fish and meat market – traders were left fearful for the future.
However, Bury Council have announced that more than half of the traders are back in on their original stalls, or a temporary stall close to the market.
In a statement, Councillor Charlotte Morris, cabinet member for culture and the economy, said: “Our famous Bury Market has been open for nearly 600 years, and we’re not going to stop now!”
Traders were told at around 7pm on Thursday that the market would be closed on Friday due to RAAC, (Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete) which was used in the construction of the building in 1971.
The short notice decision was taken following receipt of an independent buildings report and to allow investigative work on the roof and building.
Later, 12 beams in the roof were described as ‘in distress’ and assessments are ongoing to see what repairs will be needed, how much it will cost and how long it will take.
Cllr Morris added: “The safety of traders and visitors is our top priority, so we need to close the hall temporarily while further investigations are carried out.
“After that, we will be able to announce what remedial work needs to be done, and what the timescale for that will be.
“In the meantime, please show your support for our brilliant market traders and come along and snap up the usual range of bargains in our unique market atmosphere.”
At a meeting yesterday, traders were told that the situation might continue until after Christmas.
49 traders on the indoor market were initially affected – but 14 stalls on the outside of the building have now reopened as they have their own roofs, not affected by RAAC.
16 traders have reportedly moved into premises nearby.
@theburytimes Bury Market partially closed due to RAAC saftey concerns
♬ original sound - The Bury Times
The council say they hope to find alternative locations for the remaining traders in the coming days.
The outdoor market, and fish and meat hall, have not been affected and are open as usual.
Yesterday, Cllr Morris, said: “Our famous market is rightly called the jewel in Bury’s crown, winning national awards, and attracting visitors from across the country.
@theburytimes Councillor Charoltte Morris gives advice to traders and shoppers #bury #burymarket ♬ original sound - The Bury Times
“Today, we have seen what teamwork can achieve.
“The closure will have caused our loyal traders huge concern, but they have shown great understanding and resilience in moving into new premises so quickly.
“We are now working on helping them financially as regards rents, utility bills and business rates.”
More information can be found on the council’s question and answer webpage here: Bury indoor market hall temporary closure - your questions answered - Bury Market (contensis.com)
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