March 25, 2020 12.07 pm This story is over 47 months old

East Lindsey council cancels markets following backlash

East Lindsey District Council has taken the decision to cancel its markets following a backlash from social media users. The authority, along with others across Greater Lincolnshire, had originally made the decision to go ahead as food and grocery stalls are counted as “essential” under the government’s lockdown guidance. However, many residents hit out at…

East Lindsey District Council has taken the decision to cancel its markets following a backlash from social media users.

The authority, along with others across Greater Lincolnshire, had originally made the decision to go ahead as food and grocery stalls are counted as “essential” under the government’s lockdown guidance.

However, many residents hit out at authorities keeping their markets open, accusing them of increasing risk to residents and encouraging people to breach the lockdown.

In a statement, ELDC said: “The decision to host the market was taken when food was in short supply at supermarkets.

“We felt it was helpful to continue given the government’s latest advice. However, listening to your feedback, it’s clear that you would rather the markets were cancelled. As such, we have taken this decision from today.

“Markets will be cancelled until the present situation with coronavirus passes.”

Most councils across Lincolnshire have taken the decision to continue with their markets, with some increasing security measures.

North East Lincolnshire Council confirmed it had placed tape marks on the floor at its Top Town Market to show where people can stand. Cleethorpes Market, however, has been cancelled.

Non-essential stall-holders have also not been allowed at most markets, meaning that for instance in Sleaford, just one stallholders will be available.

After some councils announced their intentions, however, some residents hit back.

Debbie Kirby told East Lindsey District Council: “Wrong so very, very wrong . You are encouraging people to come out of their homes, supermarkets and local shops should be more than enough for now.”

Photo: South Kesteven District Council

Stuart Gomes said to Boston Borough Council: “Supermarkets, although confined, are a “one-stop shop”. You go, get everything you need and then go back home. 

“This is encouraging people to be out wandering through town, going from stall to stall and still having to go to other shops, increasing infection spread potential.”

Others, however, felt the outdoor markets would be safer than supermarkets.

Peter Stephenson said: “If anything the far better ventilation in an open-air market makes infection less likely.

“Personally I would rather go to an open air market than the shop.”


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