You can have your say on the future of Liverpool’s markets as new consultation is launched

Liverpool residents, businesses and organisations are being urged to have their say on key Liverpool issues, starting with the city’s markets.

As part of a new Mayoral approach, a consultation programme has launched today (Monday 11 October) which urges everyone to give their views on different aspects of Liverpool life – starting with the city’s markets offer. 

The ambition is to make the markets a key part of city life – attracting visitors, showcasing unique local food, arts and crafts and acting as a springboard for entrepreneurs looking to start-up a business venture. And, of course at the heart of it all, the markets should provide people with a different, attractive and affordable shopping experience.

The city council wants to hear from you – whether you’re a market trader, a regular shopper at one of the council-run markets, or perhaps you have never visited one of the locations before.

The aim is to find out what people’s views are of the 10 council-operated markets – exploring why people do or don’t visit them, what feedback market users have and also gathering views on how to improve the current offer.

It is hoped that by taking onboard feedback, exciting opportunities and projects can be identified which will enhance what is currently available.

Market traders and stall holders will be asked questions including where they are based, what they sell and what they like or dislike about the markets. Shoppers will be asked how much time they spend at markets, what do they want to see more of and are there any other market locations which could inspire change in Liverpool. The survey also aims to gain an understanding of why people choose not to visit the markets.

 The markets the survey relates to are:

St John’s (city centre)

Great Homer Street (Greatie)

Liverpool Food Hub (Electric Avenue)

Tuebrook Market

Monument Place (London Road)

Garston

Farmers’ markets at University Square, Woolton, Allerton, and Lark Lane.

Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture and Visitor Economy , Councillor Harry Doyle, said:

“We are now in an exciting new consultation phase which aims to make people’s voices heard, and ultimately introduce positive changes to some services which many people either take for granted, or don’t use at all.

“In regards to our markets, the end-goal is to develop a vibrant, attractive offer which not only appeals to residents, but also becomes a must-visit attraction for visitors spending time in the city.  

“I’m a big fan of our markets but as with everything, fresh input and new, creative ideas can only improve what is currently on offer which is where the survey comes in.

“We want to hear from as many people as possible – those who use them, and those who don’t – as only then can we put the wheels in motion to make a difference and put Liverpool on the map when it comes to markets.”

Director of Culture, Claire McColgan, said:

“Our market offer has a huge amount of potential – they are social hubs with a real family feel to them and we have the ambition and creative ability to grow this offer.

“Liverpool is a vocal city and, quite rightly, people love to have their say and share their views- and that’s exactly what we want to achieve with this consultation. 

“We want as many people as possible to do just that and take a few minutes out of their day to fill in this online survey and be part of what will hopefully be a brand new, inspiring chapter for our markets.”

The Future of Liverpool Markets survey will take around 10 minutes to complete and can be found here or by visiting www.liverpool.gov.uk.The survey will close at midnight Sunday 31 October and the findings of the study will be released in early 2022.  

The survey is completed anonymously and no identifying-information is required.

More consultations on different Liverpool issues will take place in the coming months.