9:38am Thursday 25th June 2009
By Nick Vaughan
When I was at school the Hereford Hopper would drop me off at the Maylords Shopping Centre bus stop. I would walk through the precinct and go via the Buttermarket as a shortcut across town and into the Cathedral Close. It would be around 8:15am as I was making this route to school - and the Buttermarket was always a hive of activity at this time of day.
The stalls would be setting up and the cafe was already doing a roaring trade at such an early hour. Now it is very different. The building has fallen into further disrepair and there are large gaps where businesses once thrived.
It is clear the market requires refurbishment. Futhermore, it needs a redevelopment which will enhance Hereford's 'offer' as a place to shop. If the Edgar Street Grid can be the catalyst to attract shoppers from outside the County, then it also requires a rejuvenated High Town. A place which has a reputation for its local produce and unique, independent retailers.
The council is now running a consultation until 28th August 2009 which is seeking Herefordians' views on the Buttermarket – and its proposed re-development.
Log on now and make your views known: http://consult.herefordshire.gov.uk/inovem/gf2.ti/f/10786/16869.1/pdf/-/Buttermartket%20questionnaire.pdf
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