LEIGH Market will not open this week despite recent government announcements that allowed some outdoor retail to open.

Wigan Council says that after recent announcements, risk assessments have been undertaken regarding our outdoor market facilities and social distancing guidelines.

As a result, Wigan outdoor market will re-open to the public on Monday, June 1.

Meanwhile, Leigh outdoor market will not be opening to the public week commencing June 1. Ashton-in-Makerfield market will also not reopen.

The council says these sites do not currently allow social distancing guidance to be maintained safely, traders will be informed of any updates. The situation will continue to be under review.

Further updates about Wigan and Leigh indoor markets will be shared next week.

The closure of Leigh market in March after the start of the lockdown sparked a political row as MP James Grundy criticised the move and said it should have been allowed to be open for essential food stalls.

Leader of Wigan Council, Cllr David Molyneux said: “Following the government announcement that outdoor markets may reopen from Monday, we have been working hard to see how we can deliver this in Wigan Borough safely for traders and customers, in line with social distancing measures.

“Throughout the pandemic, we have engaged with traders to discuss the measures that will be required to adhere to government guidance.

“The health, safety and wellbeing of all our traders and residents is of paramount importance to us and we will regularly monitor the outdoor market site to ensure national guidance is being followed.

“We continue to encourage residents to #BeKind by only leaving their home for essential items and exercise.”