COLCHESTER Market traders are set to start getting back to business as part of a phased approach to its reopening.

The Government gave the green light for open-air markets to return as part of the easing of lockdown restrictions.

Several essential traders have continued to operate on the market during lockdown, but now more are set to return as Covid-19 restrictions are eased.

Colchester Council, which runs the market, says stallholders will return on a gradual basis, with occupancy not returning to what it was before the crisis until July 4.

Martin Goss, councillor responsible for environment, transportation and waste, said it was welcome news traders could begin to return.

“Residents can rest assured we will be taking safety seriously,” he said.

“A number of food retailers have already returned successfully with proper social distancing rules in place, including markings on the pavement to direct customers.

“The opportunity is now there to fully reopen, but traders need to be comfortable with doing do. We also have to be aware of all the legislation and regulations from the Government.”

A number of a new safety measures will be in place for traders and members of the public who visit the market over the coming weeks including protective equipment, hygiene measures and directional signs.

A spokesman for the council said: “All stallholders now follow the same stringent cleaning regime adopted by food vendors prior to lockdown, as well as providing hand-sanitiser and wearing appropriate PPE.

“Many traders have adapted their business model to offer contactless payments, while some have switched to a pre-order system only, which minimises queuing and contact time.

“We also continue to work closely with the Business Improvement District to ensure consistent social distancing signage and have adapted the market’s layout to ensure there is sufficient safe space between stalls, traders and customers.

“To avoid overcrowding, the market will resume in phases, and we expect all our permanent traders to return by July 4.”

You can read more about plans to reopen town centre businesses here

Earlier this year it was announced the market would move to Lion Walk following a successful trial.

Find out more about Colchester Market on Facebook.