Ellesmere pop-up market plan

An instant pop-up market could be launched to help bring trade back in to the heart of a Shropshire market town.

Business leaders in Ellesmere want to launch the market to drive shoppers back into the centre. The ideas have been put forward as part of £50,000 plans to spend money provided by Shropshire Council's Market Town Regeneration Fund.

It comes a week after retail expert Mary Portas launched proposals to revitalise high streets and shopping centres around the country in a bid to fight back during the recession.

Ms Portas unveiled plans to help shops struggling to attract customers – including plans for a national market day and making parking more affordable.

The proposals in Ellesmere were discussed at a meeting between Shropshire councillor Ann Hartley, members of the town council, Ellesmere Chamber of Commerce and Friends of the Mere.

The group wants to install instant pop-up market stalls in the town as well as new moves to attract tourists and shoppers.

Part of the scheme is for installation of interactive equipment, which would help guide residents and visitors to attractions around the town while the pop-up stalls would be available at markets and other events. Project leaders aim to start implementing the ideas during the summer.

Councillor Hartley, Shropshire Council member for Ellesmere, said: "Ellesmere has such a lot to offer visitors and people who live in the area.

"We have been working with Ellesmere Town Council, Ellesmere Chamber of Commerce and Friends of the Mere to enhance the visitor experience in our town and encourage people to experience the fantastic facilities and events Ellesmere has to offer.

"Our project proposal has been approved in principal and we are keen to make sure that the funding is put to best use.

"By working together we are confident that we can have a range of equipment that will enhance visitor experience."

By James Pugh

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