Pete was seven when his family first pitched up at the old Gorton Market. The Sivoris have been making ice cream in Manchester for more than a century.
The café survived Covid, but has struggled to stay afloat during the cost of living crisis. And as energy costs are expected to continue increasing, even with a skeleton staff, Pete says he simply cannot afford to keep the lights on. But some are sceptical, accusing the council of 'not caring' about the market. One trader, who asks to remain anonymous, points to a leak in the roof which he tells customers is the new 'Trafford Centre water feature' at the market.
Footfall in the market has not fully recovered following the pandemic, the council says, although footfall in the wider area has in fact increased. The local authority says the new masterplan aims to make the market more attractive. In total, 400 new homes are planned, including affordable housing. And the current gymnastics club could also move to a new facility, according to the plan, which proposes a purpose-built centre that meets modern standards.
"They're saying they want to open bars and restaurants, but no one's here during the day," she added. Other traders say they know nothing about the plans for the future of the market, where all of their leases will end next year.