Mersey Reporter - Merseybites News

THE inaugural mid-week market at Stanley Park, which launched in July 2024, for an initial 7 week trial, has been extended until:- Wednesday, 30 October 2024, due to its overwhelming popularity.

Liverpool City Council's Cabinet Member for Culture, Health and Wellbeing, Councillor Harry Doyle, said:- "The success of the Stanley Park Market has far exceeded our expectations, and it's a testament to the vibrant community spirit in Liverpool. The market has not only become a key destination for residents and visitors alike but has also provided a vital boost to local businesses and community initiatives. We're delighted to extend the market through October, giving everyone more opportunities to enjoy this fantastic space. Our commitment is to ensure that Stanley Park Market remains a cornerstone of our City's cultural and economic landscape in the future."

The market, which began with around 50 stalls, has quickly grown to host over 100 stalls each week, offering a diverse array of goods, including:- fresh produce and gifts, with some traders reporting record breaking sales. This expansion has transformed Stanley Park into a bustling hub of activity, attracting residents and visitors from across the City each week.

Dr. Simon Abrams, GP Lead at Great Homer Street Medical Centre and Chair of Urgent Health UK, said:- "As a GP working in the Everton and Anfield part of the City, I am delighted with the success of the Stanley Park Market. I'm particularly pleased that along with the many different stalls, there will be one or two dedicated to promoting health. Whether it is about encouraging attendance at breast screening, tackling alcohol/drug addiction, or having your blood pressure checked, what better way to do it that in a community setting."

In addition to the market's success, it has also served as a centre for community engagement. Several community activities have been hosted at the market, including programmes by Everton in the Community for young people, as well as adult health and social care initiatives. Local businesses have also reported significant benefits, with many experiencing increased sales on market days due to the heightened footfall in the area.

Denise Joshi, Owner of Plant Vegan Shop, said:- "Having the market here at Stanley Park has been a fantastic addition to our community. The atmosphere and energy each week have been truly uplifting, and it's been wonderful to see how local residents feel more motivated to leave their homes and come together. I'm thrilled to hear that the market has been extended, as many customers were disappointed that it was set to end. This has also been a great boost for local businesses, I've noticed a significant increase in trade on Wednesdays and more foot traffic throughout the week. Kudos to Liverpool City Council!"

The extension until the end of October will allow the community to enjoy the market for several more weeks. However, the market will not operate on days when an evening match is scheduled for:- Everton FC or Liverpool FC, as the site is reserved for those events. While the dates of these matches are yet to be announced, they will be publicised on the Council's social media channels and website in due course.

Jan, local resident and owner of The Therapeutic Garden, said:- "It's wonderful that we've finally got a market in Stanley Park! There's a sense of community and connection. Not only is it about the goods you can buy, such as fresh, local produce, it's the social aspect of it too. I've met up with current friends and been able to meet new friends, too. It's great to see local businesses being supported and thriving, and it's fantastic to see that the market is being extended and making a permanent return next year!"

Looking ahead, the Council has committed to making the Stanley Park Market a regular fixture in the City's market calendar. After the conclusion of this extended trial, the market will return from Spring to Autumn, with plans for the first new permanent season to commence from around April 2025 through to the October 2024.

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