OUTDOOR markets are to reopen across Oldham, Shaw and Royton.

The announcement follows the reopening of Tommyfield’s Indoor Market Hall, which on Monday greeted members of the public for the first time in almost three months.

The borough’s street markets are in the heart of Oldham town centre, Royton and Shaw. Extra social distancing measures have been required to combat the proximity of other shops who have implemented similar controlled access to their premises after Oldham’s market sites underwent detailed health and safety assessments.

It will be the first opportunity that many traders have had since late March to get their business back up and running.

Oldham’s outdoor markets boast a range of different offers to visitors throughout the week. From traditional fresh fish, fruit and veg and bakery stalls across Royton and Shaw on a Thursday, to Caribbean cuisine and rug stalls on the Oldham Street Market, shoppers are well catered for.

Shoppers can also grab a bargain on Tommyfield’s Outdoor Wednesday Market, which sells both new and second hand goods.

Shoppers will have to wait a little longer before they can visit Tommyfield’s Outdoor Saturday Market and Sunday Car Boot Sale. This is while we adjust to welcoming the return of large crowds to these sites, but nevertheless, we look forward to these markets being back in Oldham as soon as possible.

Council leader Sean Fielding said: "Our officers have worked very hard with the traders and local shopkeepers to establish the safest possible way for our outdoor markets to reopen and I would like to thank everyone for their contributions during this process.

“Now that we have dates in place for the majority of our outdoor sites, it’s imperative that we all do our bit to support our market traders by shopping local and loving our local markets when they reopen.

“With great produce on offer for all, including fresh fish and baked goods, stylish clothing lines and fashionwear and delicious cuisines ready to taste, your custom will make a huge difference.

“I also want to say another big thank you to our outdoor traders for their continued patience during this very difficult time and I really look forward to welcoming you back to Oldham’s markets.”