Phase 2 includes:
- strict social distancing measures
- separate entrance/exit
- sanitation station
- a guided one-way system
- a queuing system
- managed maximum capacity at any given time and extra security
The measures have been put in place to ensure the safety of staff, traders and the public.
Phase 2 will see traders of household items (including DIY, hardware, electrical goods), confectionary, pet supplies, key cutting/shoe repair. Along with take away food, mobile phone accessories.
The third phase will see all 3 markets re-open fully - subject to level of compliance and feedback.
Under the Government guidance, it is recommended to shop where possible on your own or for others who are self isolating.
Councillor Steve Evans, Cabinet Member for City Environment at City of Wolverhampton Council, said: “On review of Government guidance and the success of phase 1 re-opening, phase 2 will be in operation from Wednesday 3 June across the city markets.
This, like phase 1, will be carefully managed and reviewed so we can get markets back up and opened fully. We understand there will be concerns from residents, but measures are in place to ensure the safety of the public, staff and traders.
“Traders who fall into the category of phase 2 have been informed and we are working with them to make sure they have the correct measures in place to operate safely. To support stall holders further, we will continue to charge only 50% of rent charges.”
Bilston indoor and outdoor market opening times are Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays (8.30am to 4pm). Wolverhampton City Centre Market opening times are Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays (7.30am to 4pm). Wednesfield opening times are Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday (8am to 3.30pm).
When out in public, people must stay 2 metres – or 6 feet – away from other people at all times, unless they are from the same household.
To enable shoppers to keep their distance, retailers which have been permitted to remain open, and encouraged to place limits on how many people can be in-store at any one time. And to ask customers to stand two metres apart when in-store and while queuing.
In addition, customers are encouraged to pay using contactless to reduce the amount of cash being handled by staff. The council has produced a poster for shops and businesses to print off and display, advising staff and customers of social distancing measures in operation on the premises.
