Ellesmere pop-up markets idea lands £42,000 boost

Business leaders in Ellesmere have been handed £42,000 to create pop-up markets and help breathe new life in to the town.

The money from Shropshire Council's Market Town Regeneration Fund will also be spent on sprucing up the area as part of a project aimed at bringing trade and shoppers back into the heart of Ellesmere.

Part of the scheme is for the installation of interactive equipment to help guide residents and visitors to attractions around the town.

Ann Hartley, town and Shropshire councillor, announced the successful bid at a meeting of Ellesmere Town Council on Monday, calling it great news for the area.

She said: "We now have money to inject into tourist information and pop-up stalls.

"It has got terrific potential. There are visions of a craft market on the Wharf Head and the stalls will be available to hire out.

"They will have community branding and even have picket fencing around them."

Councillor Hartley said the stalls would be ready for upcoming events.

The idea was conceived by members of the town council, Ellesmere Chamber of Trade and Friends of the Mere.

Chamber chairman Lincoln McMullan has welcomed the news. He said: "We can get the pop-up tents we really need. There are two offices in the Market Hall that we can't use because there are no fire exits, but this money will pay for that to be fixed.

"We will get some boards up by Tesco to direct people to the town and the tourist information needs a facelift too.

"People say your image is your public face, this is our chance to change the town."

Business leaders came up with the idea for a pop-up market in December following advice from retail guru Mary Portas.

She unveiled plans to revitalise high streets around the UK – including plans for a national market day and cheaper parking.