The attached report sets out the rationale for a phased rent re-introduction to Market Traders operating from Birkenhead Market.

This decision effects the Traders and operation of Birkenhead Market within the ward of Birkenhead and Tranmere.

The recommendation supports the Wirral Council Plan 2025 to support Business.

This is not a key decision.

Resolved – That

1.  Essential and non-essential traders be granted a 50% discount on their rent charges for the period 20th June 2020 until 20th September 2020.

  2.   Traders who are unable to trade due to HM Government instruction continue not to be charged rent until they are able to trade. At the point they are advised they can trade by HM Government such traders be granted a 50% discount on their rent charges until 20th September 2020.

Two other options have been considered:

A) To extend the rent-free period for all traders (From 20^th June 2020).

This was discounted on the basis that following the relaxation of lockdown trading arrangements can commence and the costs of operating the market require financial support.

B) To offer no phasing to the re-introduction of charges. This would see a move to full charge from 20^th June 2020.

This was discounted on the basis that trading conditions are likely to be challenging, and would not mitigate the risk of Traders closing down.