First phase of market transformation revealed

Ellesmere Port Market has reopened following the first phase of its refurbishment, with traders moved to newly-restored stalls alongside two new exhibits celebrating the town’s history.

The refurbished stalls have been repainted and fitted with new shutters, electrical connections and partitions with a new layout to improve movement around the stalls.

A large 3D artwork called Fantastical Port has been created by students from Ellesmere Port Catholic High School which brings the history of the town to life using archives maps and images with paintings by the students.

A 1964 Vauxhall Viva is also on display by the entrance from the Port Arcades and was one of the first vehicles made at the Ellesmere Port factory. The Viva set new standards for small lightweight family cars and over 1 million Vivas were produced at the factory between 1964 and 1979. The refurbished market’s colour scheme has been inspired by a Vauxhall paint colour chart from the 1970s featuring Tasman Orange, Sunspot and Crystal Green.

The popular children soft play area has now been relocated into the refurbished section of the market near The Corner, a new tiered seating area.

The second phase of works on the remaining hoarded off areas and in the Flea Market will continue through the spring. Work has also commenced on the public realm space in front of the market which will create a new al fresco area and landscaping along with cycle parking and seating.

Councillor Nathan Pardoe, Cabinet Member for Inclusive Economy, Regeneration and Digital Transformation said: 

“The opening of the newly refurbished areas at Ellesmere Port Market marks a major milestone in its transformation. I am grateful to customers and traders for their support of the market during the works so far - the market will continue to be open throughout the second phase of works.

“The refurbishment of Ellesmere Port Market is an exciting opportunity for new and existing traders to thrive.

"If you’d like to join a team of experienced, knowledgeable traders with the expert support of our market management team, please email: 

markets@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk.”

The refurbishment works are currently expected to complete in late summer when the entire market area will reopen.

The Ellesmere Port Town Centre regeneration project is funded by the government’s, Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government.

Anyone interested in trading from the market can register their interest via: 

markets@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk

Pictured - Dominik Cafe.