Bath’s popular weekly Farmers’ Market has been found a new – if temporary home. It follows losing its regular spot in Green Park Station after safety issues were found in the glass canopy.
From this Saturday (May 1) 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 said: “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 was also delighted to hear the news following her approach to Sainsbury’s – who lease the site – to try and find the market a temporary new home.
Wera Hobhouse 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.”
Sainsbury’s were approached for comment.
