Covent Garden’s outdoor Farmers’ Market will brighten up downtown London again, starting this Saturday, May 15. Here’s how the market will focus on customer safety during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
The market will only be operating on Saturdays from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. In consideration of the COVID-19 situation, however, it won’t yet be the social gathering place we’re used to. Instead, the market will be focused on grocery operations for customers to purchase essential items and support the local economy. Here’s how the market will focus on customer safety
Prior to entering, customers will be screened and asked to sanitize their hands while following rules that will be laid out on a signboard by the entrance. They will also have a hand-washing station set up for vendors. The market square will be roped off to limit the entrance and exit to Talbot Street, where they will have Security posted. On the ground, customers will find chalk markings leading them to a safe exit as they shop for essentials. These restrictions are to ensure that shopping is an ‘in and out’ process, and the flow of traffic is controlled.
The market encourages the use of cashless methods; however, they will be allowing cash depending on the vendors’ choice. They are also allowing vendors to operate their stands as a pick-up point or a hybrid situation for pre-orders and immediate sales. Most importantly, they are following all of the recommendations that have been provided by the Middlesex-London Health Unit and are monitoring the situation carefully.
A great aspect of this market is the accessibility to those who bike in the city. It offers a central location with secure bike parking. Even though the Covent Garden’s Outdoor Farmers’ Market is not currently a place of social gathering, you can make the most of an essential trip by getting some fresh air!
