They survived the pandemic and have battled to carry on as energy costs have soared. But this is the last straw for some traders at Gorton Market.
Emma Brennan, who turned 35 this week, has been coming to the market all her life. Living across the road, she is there 'all the time'. Last year, Manchester council gave the green light to a new masterplan for Gorton. The plan sets out aspirations for the area such as creating more of a night-time economy, building a new town square and expanding the existing market to offer more food and drink.
The council has confirmed that, in April, the total monthly costs for Card Academy increased from £882 to £1,312. Mr Ashton is now looking at leaving the market and moving his 'viable' business somewhere cheaper, saying: "I don't think I'll survive." Dessalegne Wondim, who owns Heaven cafe with his wife, faces a similar predicament. The 'community cafe' charges just £1 for a cup of tea and £2.15 for a latte - much cheaper than the big high street chains, Mr Wondim says. They will now have to put the prices up.
Simon Knott, who used to live in Gorton, does not come to the market much any more. But he believes it is important for the area.