On Monday, Liverpool City Council launched a public consultation on the future of the city’s markets, welcoming views from residents, businesses and organisations. Tony McDonough reports
A public consultation into the future of Liverpool’s markets was launched on Monday.
Liverpool City Council is asking residents, businesses and organisations to offer their views of different aspects of Liverpool. They are starting with the markets offer across the city.
Its ambition is to make the markets a key part of city life – attracting visitors, showcasing local food, arts and crafts and acting as a springboard for entrepreneurs looking to start-up a business venture.
The aim is to find out what people’s views are of the 10 council-operated markets – exploring why people do or don’t visit them, what feedback market users have and also gathering views on how to improve the current offer.
Market traders and stall holders will be asked questions including where they are based, what they sell and what they like or dislike about the markets. Shoppers will be asked how much time they spend at markets, what do they want to see more of and are there any other market locations which could inspire change in Liverpool.
The survey also aims to gain an understanding of why people choose not to visit the markets. The markets the survey relates to are:
- St Johns (city centre)
- Great Homer Street (Greatie)
- Liverpool Food Hub (Electric Avenue)
- Tuebrook Market
- Monument Place (London Road)
- Garston
- Farmers’ markets at University Square, Woolton, Allerton, and Lark Lane
Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture and Visitor Economy, Cllr Harry Doyle, said: “We are now in an exciting new consultation phase which aims to make people’s voices heard, and ultimately introduce positive changes to some services which many people either take for granted, or don’t use at all.
“In regards to our markets, the end-goal is to develop a vibrant, attractive offer which not only appeals to residents, but also becomes a must-visit attraction for visitors spending time in the city.
“I’m a big fan of our markets but as with everything, fresh input and new, creative ideas can only improve what is currently on offer which is where the survey comes in.”
The Future of Liverpool Markets survey will take around 10 minutes to complete and can be found here or by visiting www.liverpool.gov.uk. The survey will close at midnight Sunday, October 31, and the findings of the study will be released in early 2022.