Monmouthshire’s markets will reopen to the public and traders next week.  Abergavenny and Caldicot markets will reopen on Tuesday 30^th June with Monmouth’s reopening on Friday 3^rd July.

The decision follows guidance from the Welsh Government allowing non-essential businesses to reopen.  Monmouthshire County Council has been working to ensure the markets and outside areas operate in accordance with the latest social distancing and government guidelines to ensure a safe shopping experience for traders and shoppers.

The reopening of the market coincides with the current #shoplocal #shopmonmouthshire message from Monmouthshire County Council, which encourages residents to think of supporting local businesses as lockdown measures begin to ease. Shoppers can expect to see the usual selection of fresh produce, home crafts and locally sourced goods.

In preparation for reopening, all three markets will be subject to cleaning. Communal touchpoints will be cleansed throughout the day and cleaning will be undertaken each evening after the markets close.  The council has emphasised that social distancing must be maintained between stallholders and customers at all times.

Customers will be encouraged to pay for goods by contactless payment.  In addition, people shopping at Abergavenny will have to queue to enter the market hall while applying hand sanitiser, available at the entrance and around the premises.  They will also be required to follow one way walking routes installed by market staff.

Opening days for the markets are as follows:

Abergavenny – Tuesday 30^th June, Friday 3^rd July (the market is expected to return to a four-day opening from 6^th July)

Caldicot – Tuesday 30^th June, Saturday 4^th July

Monmouth – Friday 3^rd July, Saturday 4^th July.

Cabinet Member for Resources, Councillor Phil Murphy said: “Market spaces are vibrant hubs in our communities and the role of these spaces stretches far beyond just a place to buy produce.  I know many of our residents will look forward to seeing familiar faces of Monmouthshire’s brilliant traders once again.  We want shoppers to return feeling confident that their safety is the main priority.  It’s wonderful to see these important focal points of our towns returning and we encourage all residents to think of their local butchers, bakers and jewellery makers when next heading into town.”