Shrewsbury Market Hall late night opening will boost economy
Plans for Shrewsbury’s indoor market to open late in to the night each month will boost the night-time economy according to business leaders.
Aleks Vladimirov, partnership development manager at Shrewsbury BID, the body that represents more than 500 businesses in the town, said: “We welcome this innovative move by the Market Hall which will widen the town’s appeal and boost the Saturday night social scene.
“Shrewsbury takes pride in doing things differently. This is a great opportunity to enjoy the diverse and lively mix of food and drink outlets in the indoor market in a relaxed and convivial night-time atmosphere.
“We hope local people and visitors support the late openings during the trial period so that they become regular events.”
The indoor market will stay open late on the first Saturday of every month, starting on August 5, with bars and restaurants open until 10pm. A selection of retail stalls also plan to open until 7pm.
“Following the great success of our recent Lifestyle Festival and Summer Celebration market traders decided there was great public demand for regular late night events,” said facilities manager Kate Gittins.
“These will be held on the first Saturday of every month, initially during a trial period leading up until Christmas. If successful, they could carry on all year round or be held at certain times of the year.
“Our cafes and restaurants are expanding all the time due to demand.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity too for some of our retail stalls to stay open later on a regular basis, giving a real continental buzz and feel to our evening events.”
Restaurants and bars opening late on August 5 include street food specialist The Bird’s Nest Café, Saint Pierre Seafood Bar, Spanish tapas restaurant AleOli, Thai street food restaurant House of Yum, Chinese dumpling specialist Moli Teahouse, curry venue Indian Street Food, Gindifferent Bar and a pop-up craft beer bar.
The Market Buffet café will also open for evening coffee and cake. Other stalls opening late include gift and home accessory boutiques, arts and crafts studios and woolcraft specialist Ewe & Ply. Natural henna tattoo artist Naomi Yates will also be in residence. Other late night Saturdays are currently planned for September 2, October 7, November 4, December 2 and December 16. A special festive late night will also be staged on Wednesday November 15 for the Shrewsbury Christmas lights switch-on.
