International market set to boost Blackpool town centre shopping

A councillor hopes a continental market to be held in Blackpool at the end of this month could pave the way for the town to eventually host its own Christmas markets.
By The Newsroom
Published 22nd Aug 2018, 15:49 BST
Updated 22nd Aug 2018, 16:55 BST
A previous market in St John's SquareA previous market in St John's Square
A previous market in St John's Square

Squires Gate councillor Christian Cox has been involved in bringing a range of international stalls to the pedestrianised area of Church Street between the Grand Theatre and St John's Square from August 30 to September 2.

He has worked on the project along with Blackpool BID (business improvement district) and the market will be staged by Liverpool-based company RR Events.

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Coun Cox said: "I contacted RR Events after attending one of their continental street markets in New Brighton in the spring and was very impressed by the quality of their events.

"I thought this is something which would be right at home in Blackpool and made contact with the organisers.

"I am absolutely delighted they are bringing their continental market to Blackpool for the first time and feel it will be a great boost for the town centre and offers something quality and something different for everyone.

"I am hoping this will be the first of many events and this is also part of a longer term goal to bring a Christmas market to Blackpool."

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Previous outdoor markets and food festivals including the Chilli Festival have been held in St John's Square and calls have been made in the past for a dedicated Christmas market.

There will be between 20 and 25 stalls selling produce ranging from Spanish, Turkish and German cuisine to crafts and flowers from Holland.

Les Ball, operations manager for Blackpool BID, said: "That is a very busy weekend in Blackpool and there will be a lot of people about.

"Hopefully the market will attract a lot of them into Church Street and all the businesses in the town centre trading area will benefit.

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"We have had markets before but we are trying it earlier in the year and in a different location."

Organiser RR Events says on its Facebook Page: "It’s our first visit, and we couldn’t have timed it better.

"The Friday will see the world famous Blackpool Illuminations being turned on at the seafront arena, and on Saturday, Britney Spears will be appearing.

"The market will be a mix of quality international themed traders with a wide range of products on offer."

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