Wakefield and Normanton's outdoor markets forced to close

Both markets, run by Wakefield Council, had tried to continue during the crisis, with only stalls selling food and essential goods allowed to remain active from late March onwards.

But the local authority said it had made the "difficult" decision to cease trading at both sites because of a collapse in footfall during the pandemic.

The four other outdoor markets running in the district - at Pontefract, Castleford, South Elmsall and Ossett - all remain open as normal for now but are closing at 2pm on trading days. Only stalls selling essential items are allowed to trade.

Pontefract and Castleford's indoor market halls are also still open between 9am and 2pm during the week, with the council having already put social distancing measures at in place at the sites last month.

Wakefield Council's acting chief executive Andrew Balchin said: "We have made this decision after careful consideration and falling trader numbers.

"We will continue to monitor the markets that currently remain open and will let residents know of any additional changes.

"We understand this is very tough time for traders and have information about support on our website for businesses and residents during the global pandemic to assist them at this time."

Last month, stall holders in Wakefield told how they were living "one day to the next" as the city centre was hit by a collapse in footfall.Markets remaining open are:

· Castleford Market Hall and Castleford outdoor market – 9am to 2pm

· Ossett outdoor market – open on current days, Tuesday and Friday, 9am to 2pm

· Pontefract Market Hall and outdoor market – open 9am to 2pm

· South Elmsall Market on Tuesday and Friday – open 9am to 2pm.

Local Democracy Reporting Service

For information on forms of business support visit: https://www.wakefield.gov.uk/business/coronavirus-%E2%80%93-help-for-businesses including help with cash-flow problems, tax liabilities, account managers they can talk to and advice on managing staff during these difficult times, or please contact [email protected]

The council’s Step-Up service is also still offering a telephone service for residents. Step-Up can provide advice for anyone in the district whether self-employed, furloughed or unemployed to find work, improve their skills or make a career change. To contact the team call 01924 303334.