Northern Ireland

Ballymena, Larne and Carrickfergus outdoor markets reopening

Outdoor markets are reopening in Mid and East Antrim Borough Council
Outdoor markets are reopening in Mid and East Antrim Borough Council Outdoor markets are reopening in Mid and East Antrim Borough Council

Outdoor markets in Ballymena, Larne and Carrickfergus are opening again in coming days with a one-way system for shopping and queuing.

Ballymena market will open on Saturday May 23 while Larne reopens on Wednesday May 27 and Carrickfergus the following day.

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council said strict social distancing measures will be in place with staff on site at the council-run Ballymena and Larne markets. Carrickfergus market is operated by the YMCA.

The markets will open from 9am until noon and traders can begin setting up at 8am. Customers will not be allowed on site until 9am.

Alderman Audrey Wales said getting them back up and running would support local farmers and producers.

She said Balllymena market dates from the 1600s "when King Charles I stipulated a Saturday market under the terms of the sale of the land that Ballymena is built on".

Car boot sales at Ballymena market are yet to recommence.