Tommyfield Market traders have requested to move into the new market, located in the revamped Spindles, in the new year.
The move means stallholders will continue trading through the busy Christmas season, which is the most important time of year for many and then make the transition over during the quieter new year period says Oldham Council
The original plan was to see the traders move in this month however the council said that Traders were keen to ensure that everyone can move into the new space as one, keeping the market family together, and to give businesses the time they need to fit out their new stalls.
Traders have said this approach will work much better for them, as some have complex fit out requirements which puts pressure on the move, plus it means they can all move together at the same time.
Ray Aslam, Chair of the Traders’ Association, said:
“Christmas is the busiest time of year for most of us and moving before then isn’t ideal, especially as some traders have challenging fit-out requirements that take longer to complete. We wanted to make sure no one was left behind so waiting until the new year means we can all move together and make a real fresh start.”
Cllr Arooj Shah, Leader of Oldham Council, said:
“Work to prepare the new market is moving at pace, with traders busy fitting out their stalls and adding their own personal specifications.
“The move will bring together the wide variety of stalls currently at Tommyfield Market into a modern space at the heart of the town centre. A fresh, fit-for-purpose market that keeps Oldham’s proud market tradition at its heart.
“We’ve been working with our traders on this for months, and we’ve listened to what they have to say and are supporting their decision to move in the new year. After listening to traders it was clear that keeping the market open during the Christmas period was vital, both for traders and for residents who rely on them.
