7 August 2014
Countdown begins to opening of state-of-the-art market
With just weeks to go until works to transform Peacock Walk into the new permanent home for Woking Market are complete, Woking Borough Council is delighted to today unveil exciting details of Woking's stunning new covered market. In addition, an enticing range of new and established artisan traders are also revealed.
From September, the newly renamed Market Walk will feature 15 purpose-built permanent kiosks featuring a range of quality traders, as well as additional demountable seasonal stalls. New granite paving and state-of-the-art lighting will create a light, bright and welcoming atmosphere through a refurbished clutter-free pedestrian route.
Cllr Gary Elson, Portfolio Holder for Public Markets, said: "Creating a covered high quality, diverse and vibrant seven-day market in the heart Woking Town Centre has been an aspiration of Woking Borough Council for a number of years.
"Working with market specialists, Quarterbridge, we have created a quality tenant mix of both existing and contemporary traders that reflect modern consumer needs.
"To ensure the long-term viability of Woking Market, it was important that incoming traders met our vision for the market by demonstrating their professionalism, a sound financial position and the need to work with the management team in place.
"Quarterbridge was overwhelmed with the response from traders expressing an interest in the refurbished market. As the standard from applicants was extremely high, difficult decisions had to be made, which has meant that some existing traders were unsuccessful, which I`m sure has led to disappointment. However, we remain committed to these traders, some of which have served Woking's public for many years, and we will continue to support them in finding alternative premises that fit their requirements. Those traders unsuccessful in their bid for Market Walk will be permitted to continue trading in the existing Market Square until 31 December 2014. As traders find alternative premises, Market Square's trading area will reduce in preparation for, subject to planning consent, preparatory works for Victoria Square to commence.
"With only a few weeks until Woking Market opens and trading begins, we look forward to welcoming visitors to Woking's newest retail offer."
Traders already confirmed include:
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Barlow's - Formerly Eighteen14, located in Goldsworth Road, Barlow's will specialise in fresh, home-made soups with a weekly changing menu featuring inspirational recipes all freshly prepared.
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Fishmonger [Trading name TBC] - specialising in a wide range high quality fish and sea food all delivered daily from London's Billingsgate Market.
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P&P Fruits - already trading from the existing market, P&P Fruits is a family-run business, serving Woking's local communities for over 17 years with excellent, quality fruit and vegetables from around the world.
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Slice - Artisan street bakery specialising in fresh, homemade authentic pizza al tagaio, ready-to-eat pizza, awarding winning sausage rolls and fresh brownies.
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Shin Sushi Café - Quality sushi, curry and soup all freshly prepared daily. Shin's homemade food brings out the true flavours of the Far East, high in nutrients and low in calories.
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The Chelsea Flower Shop - Surrey's boutique designer florist creating elegance and providing beautiful bespoke floral bouquets and arrangements for any occasion or deserving individual.
More traders will be announced as and when confirmed.
It is expected that Market Walk will open to the public at the beginning of October. Due to lead-in times, Woking Market will potentially not be fully occupied until early 2015.
