Sandwell Council Deputy Leader Councillor Wasim Ali said: “We are all eager to get back to as close to normal as we can including shopping, but Covid-19 is still around and poses a real risk. In order to protect traders and residents, we have put in place a series of new safety measures.

“These include a new one-way system around the market, with markers on the floor to show direction and social distancing. There will also be staff on the doors to regulate the number of shoppers entering.

“We have also installed new hand sanitiser stations and a new programme of enhanced cleaning by the market staff.”

The indoor market also has new amended opening times – 10am to 4pm.

At present, the markets will be open for trade to regular traders only, no casual traders will be accommodated.

Other Sandwell Council markets will be fully re-opening in the coming weeks.

• West Bromwich High Street Market: Monday 22 June, Monday – Saturday
• Oldbury Market: Monday 22 June, Monday – Saturday
• Great Bridge Market: Wednesday 24 June, Wednesdays and Saturdays
• Wednesbury Market: Tuesday 30 June, Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays

Social distancing will be required on all sites. If people have any questions they should contact the Markets Office on 0121 553 3074 or email contact_markets@sandwell.gov.uk

For the latest information on coronavirus (Covid-19) visit GOV.UK coronavirus page and NHS.UK website

For more information on the council’s response visit the council’s shop reopening advice webpage

Important reminders to shoppers:

• If you feel unwell, you must stay at home
• Keep a safe distance – 2 metres where possible – from other people
• Consider wearing a face covering when shopping
• Use hand gel if you can and wash your hands as soon as you get home

People are also encouraged to avoid shopping in groups, walk or cycle to the shops if they can, and to pay by contactless rather than cash whenever possible.