Nottingham Christmas Market closed because of crowds

Organisers of Nottingham's Christmas Markets have taken the decision to temporarily close the markets after crowds gathered.

Mellor Group, which puts on the event said:

"In light of the unprecedented high footfall seen up and down the country for retail nationally, we have decided to temporarily close the Christmas market today." 

It comes after pictures emerged of large crowds gathering in the city centre on Saturday 5th December. 

Organisers continued: " The pent-up demand for a city-centre offer was far higher than normal and we feel this is the most appropriate way forward. This will allow us to monitor footfall in the city today and ensure that our activities support residents and local businesses in an appropriate fashion."

The market officially opened on Saturday 5th December, just days after the second coronavirus lockdown ended. Nottingham and surrounding areas remain under Tier 3 restrictions which prevent people from gathering outdoors in more than a group of six people. 

In light of the unprecedented high footfall seen up and down the country for retail nationally, we have decided to temporarily close the Christmas market today...

— Mellors Group (@MellorsGroup) December 6, 2020

... The pent-up demand for a city-centre offer was far higher than normal and we feel this is the most appropriate way forward. This will allow us to monitor footfall in the city today and ensure that our activities support residents and local businesses in an appropriate fashion

— Mellors Group (@MellorsGroup) December 6, 2020

On 28th November, Nottingham City Council released a statement responding to concerns about the decision to allow the markets to go ahead.

It said: "Detailed discussions took place with the Council’s Safety Advisory Group, which includes representation from Public Health colleagues. Outdoor markets and attractions can go ahead under the Government’s Covid rules from 2 December, and a number of other cities across the country are hosting similar small-scale events. We spoke at length with the market operator, Mellors Group, and having received the required assurances in respect of their Covid-safe measures, we made the decision that the event could go-ahead. We’d like to reassure people that this year’s market will be nothing like previous Winter Wonderlands in Old Market Square. It will cover less than half of the usual space. There will be no alcohol sold or any public seating areas. A reduced number of stalls will be spaced out, leaving room for visitors to ensure that two-metre social distancing rules can be maintained."

Read the full statement here.