Wrexham,North Wales - Negative publicity’ blamed for fall in Wrexham market shopping

Published date: 30 November 2015 | 

Published by: Staff reporter
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WREXHAM’S indoor markets will come under review again this week.

Wrexham Council’s employment, business and investment scrutiny committee will analyse the ongoing performance of the Butcher’s Market, the People’s Market and the General Market.

A report to be considered by members on Thursday highlights “negative publicity” surrounding proposals for an arts hub in the People’s Market as having been “detrimental” to trade.

It states: “Between September 2013 and September 2015 occupancy of the markets has fluctuated considerably.

“The proposal to develop an arts and cultural space in the People’s Market and the public debate associated with it has undoubtedly adversely impacted on the recruitment of traders and footfall in the People’s Market.

“Both the General Market and the Butchers’ Markets will not be directly affected by building work.

“However, traders believe negative publicity associated with the proposed development has had a detrimental effect on the footfall in all three indoor markets.

“Although footfall counters have not been fitted in the markets due to cost, the traders in the People’s Market record footfall/sales and this is down by approximately five per cent on the same time last year.”

The report adds outgoings will outweigh income from the markets “giving an anticipated operating deficit of £25,903” for 2015-16.

But the report states the outdoor markets are “expected to achieve a net income to offset this deficit. “

Consultation on the future of the People’s Market and proposals for an arts and culture hub took place in October, when traders expressed their fury at a lack of notice before it began.

Wrexham Council has secured funding from the Welsh Government’s Vibrant and Viable Places Programme, but no final decision has been made about the plans.

The proposed design for the hub includes a ground floor market and arts facility with the retention of about 30 market stalls and shops.

There are also proposals for a restaurant and artists’ facilities on upper floors of the car park, with a seasonal bar and cafe on the top deck of the car park, together with a pop-up outdoor cinema.

The business plan estimates the facility could attract up to 50,000 visitors in the first year, subsequently rising to 100,000.

It is hoped the proposed new arts and cultural hub could be up and running by January 2017.