Leith and Stockbridge markets to continue trading during lockdown

Stockbridge and Leith markets are set to continue trading while the Grassmarket outdoor market will be closed for January during the lockdown.

The location of the weekly Stockbridge market, Edinburgh

Organisers of the outdoor markets in Edinburgh have announced that they will continue to trade in both Leith and Stockbridge but that the markets will only feature food stalls as per the government guidance.

An email sent to traders clarifies that the markets based in Leith and in Stockbridge are classed as essential retail and will stay open throughout January but they will only operate as food markets.

All non-food stalls, and the Grassmarket market, are not permitted and therefore will not be going ahead this month.

Organisers have said that they didn’t take the decision lightly and that they are aware of the impact this will have on the other stalls usually trading at the markets.

Beth Berry from At the Market Ltd said: “It is such a difficult time and I want to be doing the right thing but I also don't see why supermarkets should get all the business when small local independent businesses are struggling, and I also believe outdoor shopping to be safer.”

The company has their ‘Good to Go Covid certification’ and takes safety precautions at each market that include hand sanitising stations, implementing a one-way system, removing tables and chairs and hiring more staff to man the entrance and exit points.

Organisers have apologised for the impact that only operating as food markets will have on local businesses but remain optimistic that circumstances may change allowing them to reevaluate their position at the end of the month.

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