Following issues with the safety of Green Park Station’s roof, the popular Bath Farmers’ Market has been offered a temporary home at the former coach park in Avon Street.
Green Park Station in Bath, where the market is usually held | Photo © Colin Peachey / Shutterstock.com
Bath & North East Somerset Council has been working with the Bath Famers’ Market Committee to help find a temporary site for the market, while repairs are made to the glass canopy at their usual site, Green Park Station.
From this Saturday, 1st May, the market will be based at Green Park Car Park, the former coach park in Avon Street which is part of the Bath Quays development site.
Councillor Richard Samuel, acting council leader and cabinet member for Resources, said: “We have been working with all parties involved to find a temporary solution so that Bath Farmers’ Market can continue trading while work is carried out to repair the roof.
“The market is a real asset to the city and after a really tough year, for all retail, we were keen to find a solution to ensure local businesses could continue to trade at the popular market.
“I am really pleased that a Covid-secure temporary home has been found and hope people will continue to support the traders.”
Angela Morris from Bath Farmers’ Market added: “Recent uncertainty has caused much angst for customers and traders and the Bath Farmers’ Market committee has been working closely with all parties to find a new temporary home while repairs are made to the glass canopy at Green Park Station.
“We are pleased to announce that following constructive discussions with the council, we have now secured a new temporary home in Bath city centre at Green Park Car Park.
“We look forward to welcoming all our customers this Saturday May 1st and thank everyone for their continued support.”
Bath MP Wera Hobhouse, who had earlier called for Sainsbury’s to allow the market to use the former Homebase car park, welcomed the news.
She said: “My office has received a number of emails from traders and residents about this local issue. I want to praise Acting Leader BANES Council Leader Cllr Richard Samuel and his team for their determination to find a workable, central location so quickly.
“It is a confirmation of how much we value Bath Farmers’ Market and all that it stands for. Supporting our local growers and traders is so important for our community and our economy, particularly as we emerge from the worst of the pandemic.
“Both Bath Farmers’ Market and I urged Sainsbury’s to show goodwill and find an alternative site, but without success. Well done to the Council for achieving this result.”
