Retailers returning to Newcastle-under-Lyme Town Centre

Town centre retailers are preparing to open their doors on Monday 15 June, and welcome back customers using a framework of strict rules and sensible guidance for shoppers to follow.

The town’s market was one of the first town centre attractions to open (on Friday 5 June) and customers seemed happy to stick to the guidance set out in clear signage in the area.

The Leader of the Council, Simon Tagg, said: “We saw the welcome return of the outdoor market traders and shoppers were really pleased to see them. On both Friday and Saturday there were significant queues at most of the stalls with customers following the guidance and getting back to buying fresh, local produce and household goods in the town centre once again. Many people have commented that the experience of buying online simply isn’t the same and it is clear that people were glad to be out and about, exchanging conversation with the traders and other shoppers while practicing social distancing to protect their families and loved ones.”

The town centre BID has been coordinating advice and practical help for retailers throughout the lockdown and has helped some prepare for opening.

Amy Williams, the Manager of the BID, said: “Over the past few weeks the BID has been working hard to ensure that businesses have access to the information they need to assist them with dealing with the crisis. We have kept in touch with our stakeholders via e-bulletins and updated the BID website regularly with the latest information around business support. One of the first projects we have undertaken is to provide up to 200 re-opening kits for businesses which include, face coverings, floor graphics, hand sanitiser and posters to enforce the social distancing messaging. We have also had banners and window vinyl’s installed to remind people about the Governments messaging for using the town which we hope will go some way to encouraging people to use the local high street in the coming weeks.”

The council is also re-introducing car parking charges from 15 June. With Government guidance now updated and more people out and about, the Council says it needs to manage the demand for its car parks. NHS staff, however, who have permits for the Midway car park can use them on any other Council car parks.