Cradley Heath Market closure 'won't wreck our business' say traders

Cradley Heath Market was left with just one stall holder in recent weeks after traders abandoned the place, moving into nearby shop units in the Market Square.

Out of the ten shops, four are now owned by former traders from the market hall.

These include a pet food, flowers and giftware and fish mongers.

A former carpet stall has also joined forces with the pet and flower shop to share the unit.

Gary Link, who moved his business Pier 39 to a unit on the market square last August, said trade had come on 'leaps and bounds'.

He explained: "I started in the market in 1989.

"It was sad to see its closure but then since moving here gradually more and more shops have been filled and more footfall comes in.

"It's great that we have a community spirit around here and we know each other and the old customers are remembering us too."

Oyster Properties say they are now in talks with big retailers Asda and Lidl over the future of the market.

Concerns were raised earlier this year about falling footfall at the 40-capacity market hall, despite a five-figure investment by the property group.

A spokesman for Oyster, who also own the adjoining shop units, said: "They are doing extremely well and although it was sad that the market had not survived there should be positive stuff coming out of it.

"The great thing is that this has created a band of entrepreneurs to put life back into the high street too.

"The former traders have seen opportunities outside of the market and took them up.

"Gary is an excellent example of this.

"It has been a huge commitment from some of them and its great to see success stories coming from it."

Karen Salter, from Beautiful Bounty ladieswear, said: "It is a great position that we are in and trade has picked up so much since we moved here in March."

The owner of Petals and Pets said business was still a struggle at times but better advertising was now needed.

The owner, who did not wish to be named, said: "I still have regulars visit and new faces come too.

"So hopefully it will pick up if another store was to come too.

"We all try and help each other out so that's a good thing."