OPINIONS are split on a proposed artisan market hall in Northwich.
The plans for a market hall in the old J&S Motorcycle shop in London Road feature five food outlets, a cafe, deli, bar and bench seating.
While the market concept – established and thriving in places like Altrincham and Manchester's Northern Quarter – has been welcomed, there are question marks over accessibility and location.
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On the Guardian's social media pages, readers highlighted parking as an issue, with no provision planned other than nearby pay-and-display car parks and public transport.
Iain Ashbrook said: "Great idea. In the wrong place. A new building on the site of the Weaver Square shops maybe.
"Close to town, bus stops, car parks, etc. Or move the market there, with this new concept on the site of the old market."
Jean Harvey added: "Good idea, wrong location, parking would be an issue surely."
But there was widespread support for the idea of an open-style market dining hall.
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Diane Cooke said: "I think it's a great idea and continues with the independent shop/stallholders vibe that Northwich already has going on."
Alison Plummer added: "About time, a great idea."
Cllr Sam Naylor is chairman of the Northwich Regeneration Committee, which is overseeing the Weaver Square regeneration project within Cheshire West and Chester Council.
Cllr Naylor said: "We have been around Altrincham Market and it’s a fantastic concept, and I would love one in Northwich.
"We have looked at Weaver Square and the regeneration project there, and highlighted that as a possible part of that development.
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"I would like the artisan market stall concept to be in Weaver Square or Barons Quay – I just see an artisan market on the outskirts of the town centre as not the most forward-thinking plan.
"I would welcome the concept, but my initial thoughts are that it is the wrong place."
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