Salfordians have expressed their anger at a new ‘Indie Market’ planned for the precinct, calling it “ridiculous” and “expensive”.
The feelings come after the ‘INDIEPOP’ market, a hall specialising in independent products, services and grab-and-go food and drink, was announced for the precinct last Tuesday (August 22).
Salfordians flocked to Facebook to share their mixed opinions on the new market, whose location and opening date have not yet been confirmed.
Some residents have shared how they think an ‘indie market’ will fit in to Salford’s community.
Shirley Jones said: “I’d prefer the traditional old style market. The type that is the heart of the community, always draws people in & great foot fall for other traders in the area large & small.
Alina Coyle said: “Indie equals expensive. Lovely but expensive. There was an artisan market in Eccles a few years back. It didn’t last.”
Elizabeth Sam said: “Used to have very fond memories of the market, a sense of real community. Now, even the pigeons walk round in pairs.”
The introduction of the market has also been criticised by many as “too little, too late”, with the Precinct’s overall quality casting doubt over the success of the stalls. Some have also called for the return of the late Cross Lane Market.
John Murray said: “The shopping centre has been allowed to slowly die and the indie market will just be a plaster over a gaping wound and those who can afford the pitch prices will have to price their goods accordingly and the Salford folk on the whole cannot afford artisan prices.”
John Kane said: “When you go to Salford shopping centre, it’s a game of puddle dodging and mind the bucket whilst choosing the best charity shop, cos there’s not much else there. So much for a great market heritage.”
Bee Stace agreed: “Need to fix the centre… constant buckets, leaks, cracks and everything looks old and knackered. Cant have a shopping centre of a city look like a run down village hall beggin for a new roof! Its gross!”
Moira Edge: said: “The new indoor food hall is ridiculous.”
Connie Wallace continued: “We need our old market back.”
Despite the uproar, some believe the market could bring much-needed revenue into the area, and offer a safe space for Salford’s artists and creatives.
AG Emps said: “There are plenty of creatives in Salford. And huge student population also probably buzzing with ideas. Looking forward to seeing this get off the ground.”
Ashley Bowden agreed: “Get the stalls back on salford precinct we all miss them days I’m only 29 but remember loving every minute always finding the best bargains and remember going to the little cafe next to it that closed down.”
Many small creatives and businesses in the area have also expressed their excitement and interest in INDIEPOP, by emailing organisers to get involved.
The new-comer will be the precinct’s second market hub, after The Market Hall was opened in 2019.
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