THE proposed new Warrington Market opening next Monday has been postponed to Monday , July 6, due to supply chain issues to make it “COVID secure”.
The intended opening of the new market next week would have seen only dry food/goods and fresh produce traders operating on the ground floor. With the new opening of the market now pushed back to July, we will be welcoming shoppers with many more traders open for business – including those serving prepared food and businesses on the mezzanine level.
A council spokesperson said: “We cannot underestimate the disruption and difficulties caused by coronavirus. Despite our best efforts, unforeseen circumstances brought about by the pandemic mean that we are unable to open safely next week.
“Some of our traders, who were hoping to open next week, have been affected by supply chain issues, as has the wider market. Delays out of our control in receiving goods and equipment to ensure the market is ‘COVID secure’ mean that we have no alternative but to postpone opening. The temporary market building has now been vacated and it would not be feasible for traders to return in the interim period.
“We have a legal duty to ensure that our shoppers, traders and staff are safe and as protected from the virus as possible. This has and always will be our priority. We can’t afford to take any risks if we don’t have absolute confidence that our customers and traders can use the new market safely.
“We understand this decision will be disappointing news for many, but we cannot in good conscience consider opening a building that we don’t consider ‘COVID secure’. We will be working hard over the next three weeks on opening the new Warrington Market to our customers on Monday 6 July, with the guarantee that we have done everything possible to make it a safe and stress-free shopping experience.
“We can’t wait to welcome you next month!
