South Shields Market announces 'important step' to improve experience
New organisers of the South Shields Market are hoping to increase footfall and user experience.
A new operator has been introduced to South Shields Market to bring a new lease of life to the site.
The Local Heroes group has been appointed by South Tyneside Council to run the weekly market, which runs each Saturday.
It is hoped the move will bring a renewed focus on quality traders and a better visitor experience.
Under the new arrangement, residents and visitors can expect a refreshed line-up of stalls, showcasing local producers and independent traders.
Existing traders will remain at the heart of the market, with opportunities to help shape the offer as it develops, alongside the introduction of new stalls.
Cllr Paul Mackings, Leader of South Tyneside Council, said: “This is an important step in our plans to breathe new life into South Shields town centre.
“We want to see more people visiting, spending time here and supporting our local businesses, and improving the market offer is key to driving that footfall.
“This is another piece of the jigsaw as we work to revitalise the town centre and build confidence in South Shields as a place to invest and grow.
“With significant investment already happening, including the relocation of South Tyneside College, strengthening the market will help build on that momentum and bring more people into the heart of the town.
“We see real potential for this to act as a catalyst for further private sector investment and play a key role in the town’s future.”
The partnership with Local Heroes will initially operate as a pilot from Saturday, July 4 July until the end of the year.
The pilot will focus on improving the overall operation of the market, increasing footfall, making better use of available pitches and enhancing support and communication with traders.
Chris Jewitt, co-founder of Local Heroes, added: “We’re really excited to be bringing our offer to South Shields and to be working with traders to build on what is already there.
“Markets are at the heart of communities, and we want to celebrate the traders people already know and love, while introducing new ideas that encourage more people to visit and spend time here.”