Portsmouth council promises Covid-19 protection as Southsea Farmers' Market returns

Southsea Farmers’ Market returned to the city at the weekend, with stall holders selling their usual local produce in Palmerston Road, Southsea.

The market takes place on the third Sunday of every month.

According to the National Market Traders Federation (NMTF), government guidance means market stalls selling essential goods, such as food, are allowed to stay open.

Deputy council leader, Cllr Steve Pitt, is glad the market is still able to go ahead – but insists it will still be Covid-secure.

He said: ‘The government guidelines are very clear that outside markets provide essential items, and can still go ahead.

‘We have no concerns about people being able to socially distance; we have got enforcement teams and will be keeping an eye on proceedings.

‘I don’t want people to flock there and make it busy, but it’s great that these traders are able to continue with what they do.’

Last Sunday’s market had a good number of people turn up, without crowding the area.

As with Southsea seafront, the council will introduce calming measures if issues arise in the future.

But Cllr Pitt is optimistic that this won’t be the case.

‘Firstly, I don’t believe the market is going to be too busy on a gloomy January Sunday,’ he said.

‘We will respond to any evidence that is presented to us – but won’t operate on hearsay, and at the end of the day there’s no evidence to suggest the farmers’ market will drive up infections.

‘I don’t believe it’s all that busy in Southsea myself, but we will make sure everyone is kept safe.’

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

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