Understanding and Enhancing the Community Value of Traditional Retail Markets in UK Cities (Markets4People)
While traditional retail markets have played an important role in the life of towns and cities for centuries, they now face increasing pressure as the rise of corporate retail, alongside public sector cuts, have left many sidelined. While much attention has focused on the revival of markets aimed at high income and tourist consumers, there has been less focus on their decline in deprived areas elsewhere and the social, economic and cultural implications this poses to the communities that depend on them.
Understanding and Enhancing the Community Value of Traditional Retail Markets in UK Cities (Markets4People) seeks to develop a better understanding of these impacts through in-depth research and fieldwork in three case study markets (Sheffield Moor, Stockport and Queen’s Market in London). Through literature reviews, stakeholder interviews and a series of knowledge exchange events, the findings will identify the value of traditional retail markets to local livelihoods, social participation and identity. The research aims to support informed and inclusive policy making to ensure these spaces continue to contribute to civic life in marginalized, low-income urban neighbourhoods.
Sara Gonzalez (Principal Investigator, Associate Professor)
Sophie Watson (Professor)
Graham Clarke (Professor)
Paul Waley (Senior Research Fellow)
Rachel Laurence (Director)
Andy Newing (Lecturer in Retail Geography)
Christopher Savage (Projects Manager)
Lisa Buckner (Associate Professor of Social Statistics)
Adrian Bua (Researcher)
• In-depth fieldwork and consultation in three case study markets (Sheffield Moor, Stockport and Queen’s Market, London).
• Series of multi-stakeholder dialogue and knowledge exchange events, including workshops and community sessions.
• Development and dissemination of journal articles, accessible briefings and other publications.