Traders at Belfast's Smithfield Market have expressed frustration regarding the state of the market's facilities and a perceived disconnect with Belfast City Council. Issues range from the cleanliness of the premises to the responsiveness of the local authority.
Alan Taylor, owner of the café and comic book shop Coffee & Heroes, has been a trader at Smithfield for nearly a decade. He described a general sense of being "slightly ignored" compared to other markets. Taylor noted that while he has "happy memories" of the market from his childhood, the current external appearance and internal issues detract from the atmosphere. He suggested that "a tiny bit of advertising, a tiny coat of paint" could significantly improve the market's appeal.
Taylor believes the council has a responsibility to the market that it is "not particularly" meeting. He recalled the last meeting with the council was approximately two years ago, primarily to inform traders of rent increases. Following this announcement, three businesses closed within three months. According to Taylor, as long as rent is paid, there is "literally no communication" from the council.
The concerns echo those of other traders who have pointed to issues such as dirty windows, broken lights, and a general lack of communication. These conditions reportedly affect the overall environment of the market, making it a less desirable place for both traders and customers.
