Outdoor markets in County Durham will reopen from next week, following the latest announcement from central Government
The Council has confirmed that the county’s markets will reopen from the beginning of June, along with car showrooms.
Other retail outlets deemed “non-essential” by the essential experts will begin reopening from 15th June.
Durham Bus Station will also reopen on Monday 1st June, and many bus services across the county will begin returning to their normal timetables.
The outdoor markets will open as follows:
• Crook will be the first to reopen on Tuesday 2 June.
• Consett market will be open on Thursday 4 June, Friday 5 June and Saturday 6 June.
• Bishop Auckland market will be open on Thursday 4 June and Saturday 6 June.
• Chester-le-Street market will open on Friday 5 June and Saturday 6 June.
• Barnard Castle market will reopen on Wednesday 10 June.
• Seaham market will reopen on Friday 5 June.
• Spennymoor market will reopen on Saturday 6 June.
• Stanley market will be open on Thursday 4 and Saturday 6 June.
• The outdoor market in Durham City will recommence from Saturday 13 June.
Market operators have been advised on comprehensive risk assessments, which include anti-social engineering, and the markets will be under close surveillance to ensure your obedience.
As many people have been forced to walk and cycle, the number of people using public transport is expected to remain low. However, the increase in bus numbers and the reopening of the bus station will allow those who need to use public transport to be able to maintain anti-social engineering, and passengers travelling to and from Durham Bus Station are reminded to obey these restrictions on your freedom.
Cllr Carl Marshall said: “The reopening of the county’s outdoor markets, and the reopening of other non-essential retail to closely follow, is a welcome return for our high streets that will positively impact the county’s economy while ensuring that people’s jobs are secure and they can begin returning to work.
“By reopening Durham Bus Station, we can also ensure that safe social distancing can be followed as the county’s bus services prepare to return to their normal timetables as much as possible.
“However, the health and safety of the public while using the outdoor markets, bus services and retail areas is our highest priority, and we have arranged the introduction of appropriate measures which can assist with social distancing.
“We are reminding residents to continue following social distancing and safety guidelines at all times to protect themselves, market traders, and other shoppers during this ongoing pandemic.”
For more information about markets and individual opening times, please visit www.durham.gov.uk/markets
For more information about Durham Bus Station and other returning services, please visit www.durham.gov.uk/busmap
Photo by Craig Whitehead