Popular Shrewsbury Market Hall bucks the recession

Against a backdrop of high street store closures across the county, more than 200 people are on a waiting list for a stall at Shrewsbury Market Hall.

Bosses at the indoor market in Claremont Street say the number of people on the waiting list is nearly three times higher than the current occupancy rate of about 70 stalls.

Site manager Kate Gittins said: "Sometimes I'm getting as many as three inquiries a day."

The market, jointly run by managing agent Jones Lang LaSalle and Shrewsbury Town Council, has diverse businesses ranging from an oyster bar and a Middle Eastern restaurant to a bike shop, home furnishing boutiques.

"The market's success is not simply down to the fact its lower rents make it attractive for businesses during the economic downturn," added Kate.

"There are now so many wonderful creative businesses in the market hall that they've made it a desirable place to be.

"The market has firmly established itself as an important part of the lifeblood of Shrewsbury town centre.

"Not only is it a successful incubator for new business, with many going on to establish high street shops, it also helps to keep alive many established businesses who have moved in here after finding the economic situation tough on the high street."

Nail bar, Calypso Nails and home emporium Dilly Dally, set up by Shrewsbury textile artist Susan Livesey, are among the newest stalls to open in recent weeks.

Among stallholders who have recently left to open high street shops are Petra's Pots which has moved to Wyle Cop, Earth Spirit essential oils, now in The Parade Shopping Centre, and

Forget-Me-Not traditional toys which is opening in Whitchurch. Businesses replacing them include a wedding and portrait photographer, a retailer of ethically-sourced cosmetics and a vintner.

The main trading days are Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. Selected stalls also open Thursday mornings.