Plans for new Northwich Market receive a thumbs up from residents
Northwich residents were asked to help shape plans
Cheshire West and Chester Council’s plans for the new Northwich Market in Barons Quay have received overwhelming support from the public.
Northwich residents were asked to help shape plans for the new market in an online questionnaire and two drop-in events held in late May.
Over 1,100 responses were received, with 93% of respondents supportive of the plan to move the market to a new unit in Barons Quay. There was also strong support for the design of the new market, with 85% of respondents positive about the plans put forward by the Council.
In particular, the majority of people (88%) felt that it was important that the new market includes a range of food and drink stalls, with the most popular options being Asian, Mexican, pizza, brunch/breakfast, and a bar.
Similarly, 93% of people also wanted to see a range of produce, goods and services in the new market. The most popular options included a bakery, cheese/deli, flowers/plants and a greengrocer followed by a butcher, fishmonger and vintage clothes.
When asked about opening times, respondents’ most popular preferences were for Saturday followed by Sunday and Friday; the least popular day was Monday. In terms of shopping behaviour, nearly half the respondents (45%) visited Barons Quay once a week, and almost 90% once a month.
The full survey report is available online
The views of Northwich residents will be used to shape the final plans.
The new market at Barons Quay is expected to open next year. This will replace the existing market within Weaver Square, a short distance away. The existing market will be demolished and replaced with quality new homes as part of an ambitious plan to regenerate the town centre.
This will be the biggest investment in Northwich Market since 1960s. The new market will benefit from an investment of around £1.8 million to create an inclusive community space for businesses to grow, where current and new traders can thrive in the centre of Barons Quay.
The Council is also keen to hear from any potential businesses looking to trade in the new market. For more details on the plans and to register an interest in trading at the market, visit: www.northwich.market
Councillor Nathan Pardoe, Cabinet Member for Inclusive Economy, Regeneration and Digital Transformation said: “It’s great to hear the voice of Northwich residents and their support for the Council’s plans for a new and improved market. The public enthusiasm for the new market to remain in the town centre is fantastic news and the feedback will shape the market design and offer.
“Our next step is to launch a recruitment campaign for traders, and we welcome interest from existing and new traders. Thank you to all the residents who shared their views, and to market traders for working with the Council to create a new Northwich Market fit for the future.”