25 May 2023
The celebrations don’t stop following the one millionth visitor to the new Chester Market as markets across the borough have also been celebrating Love Your Local Market fortnight.
Over 24 countries worldwide celebrate The Love Your Local Market fortnight between 12 to 27 May.
Cheshire West and Chester Council manage markets in Ellesmere Port, Chester, Winsford and Northwich, there are also popular street markets in Neston and Frodsham.
Winsford Market is celebrating Love your Local Market on Saturday (27 May) with a craft and gift fair between 10am and 4pm.
Chester Market welcomes the Dee Sign Choir performing on Saturday lunchtime for the first time, plus there are regular music performances on Friday and Saturday evenings.
Councillor Nathan Pardoe, Cabinet Member for Inclusive Economy, Regeneration and Digital Transformation, said: “I hope people visit their local markets during the Love Your Local Market fortnight. It’s a chance to celebrate the culture and vibrancy of the markets across our borough in Northwich, Winsford, Chester, Ellesmere Port, Frodsham and Neston
“Welcoming a million visitors to Chester’s new market is a fantastic achievement and fitting that we can celebrate during Love Your Market fortnight.
“Ellesmere Port Market also has much to celebrate as plans are continuing for major improvements to their building as part of the town centre Levelling Up Fund – Transforming Ellesmere Port Town Centre project.”
Plans for Ellesmere Port Market include reconfiguration and improvements of the market hall to provide a better environment for shoppers and traders. A new children’s play area has been opened and the Market will also see the installation of Wi-Fi, and new Changing Places toilets.
There will be environmental efficiency improvements to the building including photovoltaic (PV) panel installation and increased natural lighting.
The entrance to the market will be improved creating a multi-functional spill-out space for businesses and events, and secure cycle parking, to reinforce cycling links between the town centre and surrounding areas.
Ellesmere Port Market’s popular Flea Market space has already hosted special events including a very popular Comic Con (that returns in June) a Craft and Gifts event plus more special events to be announced. This area will be developed to provide a new flexible events space to increase the number and type of events and welcome visitors from across Ellesmere Port and the surrounding area.