THE man behind the redevelopment of the Markets has rejected claims that UK retailers are bulldozing Town. Local shop owners and managers have backed the views of Environment minister David De Lisle.
But Brett Allen said that the island was benefiting from new retailers in the Markets.
‘It’s reducing the leakage of shoppers to the UK, France and Jersey and we hope the local businesses are benefiting,’ he said.
‘It adds a little competition to the offer on the High Street. It’s not there to destroy local businesses and should bolster them.
‘The Market has generally established itself now as part of the Town centre shopping area and as more shops open more people will come.’
Sport Direct’s new store in the former Bonded Stores and the Inner Street are both due to open this week.
‘We are introducing new traders which is a major plus. Sports Direct have within their group Slazenger and Lillywhites,’ he said.
The lease for unit five, where the old Brunchers walkway was located, has now been agreed with retailers Whittard of Chelsea - tea and coffee specialists - and luxury snack experts Julian Graves.
McAulay is also deep in talks with potential occupiers of the remaining two units, who would be new retailers in Guernsey, including a major German company.
‘The people who are already in this complex are very happy with trade and there should be no reason why the same should not apply to the High Street,’ said Mr Allen. ‘We get nothing but positive comments from people - they love it.’
A deal between the developer and the Channel Islands Co-operative Society has been finalised.
The fit-out should start this week with local contractor R. G. Falla undertaking the work, which is expected to last six months.
It is hoped to open the new Co-op store in time for Christmas, with the traditional market traders operating in the same part of the building.
‘The layout is to reflect the market heritage of the building and there will be fresh produce stations within the layout of the store,’ said Mr Allen.
‘In the meantime we want to get people using the Markets, which is for the benefit of Guernsey as well as the owners of the building, all traders in the island and the States.’
Plans are currently being made for the return of the local ‘Thursday’ market on Fridays and Saturdays in the area next to the temporary marquee.
‘It could start fairly imminently,’ said Mr Allen.
The delay has been the controversial fencing and general workload.
Local producers of all kinds will be invited and for further details they can contact Sonia Taylor at McAulay on 715918.
Other various outdoor events are being planned for the summer for the whole Markets area.
Article posted on 29th May, 2007 - 12.00am
Loading ...
Most Commented: