Liverpool City Council regains control of markets

Liverpool City Council has regained control of its markets, after buying them for a sum of £1, from Geraud Markets UK, which has operated them since 2003.

Following the purchase, all staff are expected to continue to be employed under a new company, Liverpool Markets Ltd. The move is part of the council’s plan to make further investments in the market sector.

Malcolm Kennedy, cabinet member for regeneration, said: ''This deal is a watershed moment in the history of Liverpool's markets and ensures they will once again become a major asset in our flourishing retail sector.

''As a city council we are investing millions in upgrading the facilities and the time had come to take back full control of the operations.

''As a result of this new deal we will be able to host, manage, promote and deliver the markets in-house and ensure a standard of quality befitting the new facilities that we are investing in.

''This new approach will give current tenants, future traders and customers a single point of contact that will enable us to improve the market offer right across the board from farmer's markets, international markets and the Christmas markets."