Home to fresh fruit and veg stalls and a beloved book vendor, Manchester’s Church Street Market was a long-term stalwart of the city’s community. But now, after operating more than half a decade, the Northern Quarter market has been forced to pack up for good.
The building that Church Street Market has lived at for the 53 years, 20-22 and 24-36 High Street, is due to be demolished and turned into a 22-storey building for commercial spaces and 361 new apartments. Planning application was submitted back in 2018 and approved in 2020.
Stall owners of Manchester Bookbuyers, Afro Caribbean Asian, McCalls greengrocers and McCalls Organics all had to shut up shop by Saturday 14 September.
Mark McCall, owner of McCalls greengrocers and McCalls Organics, told Manchester Evening News: ‘It's the last bit of Manchester left. It’s the last bit of character left.
‘When we go, there will be shiny new flats here for everyone. How would you like to be left in limbo for five-and-a-half years, not knowing what your future was?’
A spokesperson for Manchester City Council said: ‘Unfortunately, after extensive efforts we were unable to find an alternative market site that suited all parties, and we have since agreed a settlement with the businesses as part of the closure process. We'd like to thank the traders for their service to our city.’
Out and about in Manny
The end of Church Street Market is a real loss for Manchester locals. If you want to support the city’s remaining indie traders, our list of its best independent shops is a good place to start. For other local businesses worth your custom, take a look at our roundups of Manny’s best restaurants, bars and pubs.
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