Birkenhead Market traders welcome the idea of a move to Marks and Spencer over fears decades-old family businesses will have to close.
Mr Featherstone said his plans would complement Birkenhead’s regeneration. He told the ECHO: “It’s trying to move forward in a positive way. All traders want this,” adding: “I want the council to see the logic in this, see it as a good idea for the town centre and traders.” Mike Eccles’ family has been running Billy Hills Curtains for 76 years first opening in the market in 1948. He said: “I am 100% behind the idea because there’s no alternative. The size of my business, there’s just not going to be enough room in Argos. Apparently, we have to apply for a position. I have got a business that has existed for three generations.”
Terry O’Reilly who runs Just Specs Optical said: “M&S is in a really favourable position. A lot of customers say they would prefer the market to be more in the position of M&S. It’s right in the centre of town and it would fit all traders. It wouldn’t close down businesses. However, there was a strong feeling amongst other traders Wirral Council may look to stop the plans. In order to set up a market in Marks and Spencer, Mr Featherstone has to apply for a market rights licence and the local authority as the shopping centre owner will have to agree to the subletting.
Joe Orr, chair of the tenant’s association, said: “I do feel optimistic. A locally run project like that would be a lot fairer for the traders,” adding: “I feel like it’s the only option for traders because of the size of Argos.