UNCERTAINTY surrounds the future of a once popular market in Bournemouth town centre.
Questions have been raised around the future of Westover Gardens Art and Makers Market, previously called Pine Walk Market.
Running for more than 60 years, the open air market at the top of Lower Gardens, had previously been promised new pods to replace the old stands though this is now up in the air.
A BCP Council spokesperson said: “We are hopeful that we will be able to re-open the much loved Westover Garden Market this year.
“It was hugely popular before the pandemic and we recognise it was a vibrant and creative space for all people to enjoy.
“At present, we are outlining proposals for the area but there are no official plans or timescales as of yet.”
READ MORE: What is the future for Westover Road in Bournemouth?
Owner of Picnic Park Deli, the cafe that co-runs the Art and Makers Market, Adam Richardson said: “There’s a group of regular artists that have been doing it for nearly 60 years and they’re really keen to come back and there’s lots of interested parties but we’ve had no answers from the council as of yet.
“We’re just waiting for answers on what to do with the space but obviously it’s March so we’ll need to know soon.
“Since the aviary’s been done, the birds will be moving back in three weeks hopefully depending on bird flu and obviously that space is in need of repair.
“It’s disgusting - the current stands and the canopies need replacing.
“There's lots of different possibilities but we’re just waiting on the council to sign this off.”
Since the market is only open seasonally, between May and September, the canopies have fallen foul to graffiti.
READ MORE: Westbourne fire: Residents still can't return home
The BCP Council spokesperson said: “We can also confirm that we have had no recent reports of anti-social-behaviour at Pine Walk or Westover Gardens.
“Should the market recommence, our CSAS Officers will continue to patrol the area and if any concerns are raised, working in partnerships with the Neighbourhood Policing Team and BCP Council’s Anti-Social-Behaviour team to ensure appropriate action is taken.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel