Council appoints market operator for high street
By Connor Steel
GOSPORT BOROUGH COUNCIL have announced plans to revamp its ‘traditional’ high-street market with more stalls, entertainment and special themed events as part of a bid to rejuvenate the town centre throughout the ‘winter’ months; councillors hoping to boost numbers to this area following the Covid-19 pandemic and the changes in shopping habits.
The council have appointed local company, Nest and Anchor Events, to become the market’s new operator on an inital eight month contract; which will not affect the current stallholders on Tuesdays and Saturdays. This business has been running markers in Fareham at the Cams Estate that have been widely praised by local residents and traders this year.
Nest and Anchor Events have seen temporary seating allocated for previous occasions, which has included ‘live’ music provided by local bands / entertainers alongside higher profile names. They also boast a widening ‘mix’ of vendors who regularly attend Cams Estate; selling products such as soft drinks, bespoke jewellery, household products, and sweets.
Staff will work alongside the town centre businesses and arts / crafts producers in Gosport High Street with the hope of improving relationships; the new operator’s first major event being scheduled for November 25. This is currently due to include a festive themed heritage market that will coincide with the council’s annual evening Christmas lights switch on.
The new operator is hoping this will lead to further events such as a spring artisan market, Mothers Day events and the themed Easter occasion in the high street by early April next year; whilst more information is due to be published online shortly. Local resident Donna Moore has also been appointed the “Town Centre Regeneration Manager” by the council.
Readers can read quotes from council leader Peter Chegwyn and Tim Mountford about this announcement via this link here; whilst further details on similar projects are also available. This includes those carried out at the Museum and Art Gallery in the High Street; alongside the restoration of multiple historic shopfronts and installation of colour shop signs.
PICTURED BY ALAMY (DG07X8): A group of people walking through the market in Gosport High Street on sunny day.
