OXFORD’S popular Gloucester Green market is set to open at the weekend for the first time.

At the moment the city centre market opens on Wednesdays and Thursdays but from November 8 it will start operating on Saturdays as well.

The decision has been taken following the success of the market since its running was outsourced from Oxford City Council.

Bob Price, the leader of the city council, said: “The open market in Gloucester Green is a long standing and popular part of the city’s shopping offer, and has been attracting more and more people under the new management company.

Our top stories

 

“The successful growth in trade over the past few months has encouraged them to launch this extra market day. It is good news for the traders and the many customers of Gloucester Green markets and we hope that it will bring in more shoppers and visitors to the city at the weekend.”

In 2013 the running of the market was taken over by private firms Geraud UK and LSD Promotions Ltd after they struck a deal with the city council that included £150,000 of investment.

Since taking it over, the companies have invested in new stalls, branding, a new layout and more promotion.

Dermot McGillicuddy, of LSD Promotions, said: “We are very excited about the new day for Oxford. The public demand to provide another outdoor market day has been overwhelming.

“Now with three days outside and seven days in the Covered Market, the city really has a very interesting and varied market offer for local people and visitors to Oxford.”

As well as local and international food, the Saturday market will include a seating area with music provided by local buskers.

A large section of vintage, antique, and craft collectibles will also be on offer.

Sally Thomas, one of the directors of the Chilterns Residents’ Association in Gloucester Green, said: “We’re very pleased that there is going to be another market with a slightly different flavour.

“Not only will it offer a section of antiques, crafts and vintage collectibles, but also a busking circle in the middle of the market, and I think that will be great for the weekend shoppers.

“It is worth pointing out that it’s the only community square in the centre of Oxford and we hope that the Saturday market will attract more people to visit.”

Earlier this month the Oxford Mail revealed the new owner of Gloucester Green, New River Retail, is putting together plans that involve redeveloping the square and the George Street cinema.

But the city council has said the market would not be affected by plans, which are still at an early stage.

  • Do you want alerts delivered straight to your phone via our WhatsApp service? Text NEWS or SPORT or NEWS AND SPORT, depending on which services you want, and your full name to 07767 417704. Save our number into your phone’s contacts as Oxford Mail WhatsApp and ensure you have WhatsApp installed.