Markets set to return at airport site

Traditional Saturday markets are returning to Wolverhampton Airport after being axed two years ago, it has been announced.

The airport at Halfpenny Green, Bobbington, will hold the first market on September 26 featuring chalets and a marquee with crafts, antiques and other collectables.

The site hosted a hugely popular market for 28 years, attracting more than 35,000 visitors. Popular items included farm produce.

Many stallholders were there from when the market first opened in 1974 and returned every week.

The market was eventually closed down by airport bosses in 2002, and then again in 2006 after being resurrected, as numbers dwindled. Despite its popularity, increased traffic in the surrounding villages sparked complaints from residents.

The airport is now owned by Marr Properties. The market will be held every Saturday by LSD Promotions, which has run markets on behalf of councils and private developers across the Midlands for the last 20 years.

In January, LSD relocated from its Stourbridge office to the airport permanently, when it was granted a licence to operate markets by the Civil Aviation Authority.

Extensive

Children can enjoy bouncy castles, a land train and special helicopter rides at the new fixture.

LSD promotions director Linda McGillicuddy said: "Extensive ground work has been undertaken by LSD Promotions and the site is all set for the re-launch, with around 150 traders booked in.

"It is our belief that the profile of markets needs to be lifted and standards raised, making people more aware of the benefits of market shopping, particularly in a recession.

"Although we are charging low rates to our traders, there will be no cutbacks on quality or service, and the market will be organised to a very high standard."

She added that a special market will be held on the last four Saturdays before Christmas. The markets will run from 9am until 4pm.

By Rita Maman