Council to take back control of historic town market

Frank Field MP

Moves to guarantee the future of Birkenhead Market have been welcomed.

Wirral Council is to take over the management of the site for the first time in 15 years in plans aimed at securing its immediate future and, hopefully, to “bring the buzz and vibrancy back”.

The council, which owns the land, will take over the day-to-day dealings from Birkenhead Market Holdings Ltd.

Its actions are part of a wider multimillion-pound strategy to revitalise the Wirral town.

The initiative has been welcomed by traders, and politicians as a way to attract more people and increase footfall in the town.

Birkenhead MP Frank Field said it is good news, but cautioned that he believes there is still work to do.

He said: “This is a welcome first step in what needs to become a broader programme, both to attract more people to the market and to make the town centre a place where people want to go to work, do business, and enjoy themselves.

“Along with Birkenhead’s councillors, I will continue trying to shape that programme.”

The council will take control of the market, which dates back to 1835, in February 2019. Traders said they hope it will enable them to “rebuild relationships” with the community, as well as reconnect with the younger generation.

Greg McTigue, chair of the Birkenhead Market Traders Association, said: “Now that the immediate future of the market is secure it’s important we let shoppers know we’re open for business.

“I think locals, especially the younger generation, feel disconnected and simply don’t know what we have to offer, which is a shame.

“With the help of the council we want to rebuild the relationships with the community and leave the people of Birkenhead in no doubt that their market is alive and kicking.”

Wirral Council cabinet member for jobs and growth, Cllr Angie Davies, said: “While the plans for regenerating Birkenhead town centre represent a vision for a bright and prosperous future, it’s important we also keep sight of the present.

“The rejuvenation of Birkenhead town centre is a top priority and a thriving and successful market is an integral part of these plans, both now and in the future.

“Birkenhead Market has a huge amount to offer and, having brought it back under council control, we look forward to working with traders to understand the challenges and identify ways to help bring the buzz and vibrancy back.”

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