Traders Confront Sudden Closure

[By: Harry Leach] – In a sudden and unforeseen turn of events, traders at the Market Village within the One Stop Shopping Centre in Perry Barr have grappled with the reality of their businesses being abruptly shut down. The closure, which occurred on January 12, has placed numerous family-owned businesses in a precarious position.

Under the ownership of Perry Barr Market Properties Ltd, Market Village found itself unable to manage its debts, leading to the drastic measure of administration. This decision has affected approximately 30 businesses operating within the market hall, compelling them to cease operations and vacate the premises immediately.

Livelihoods in Limbo

The repercussions of this sudden closure are profound. Traders, who gathered outside the shopping centre on January 13, face the biting cold and an uncertain future. The closure has left many in shock, their livelihoods hanging by a thread as they ponder over what comes next.

Dal Bains, the proprietor of Second Skin Clothing, expressed his dismay, “We’ve been here 17 years. To be given two hours to leave was absolutely diabolical. We pay our rent week in, week out.” The impact extends beyond the individual traders, affecting around 60 families relying on these businesses for sustenance.

Sharon Gardner, owner of the hair salon Shar-deni, shared her disbelief and the immediate impact on her business. “I was handed a letter at around 3.30 pm yesterday and they said ‘digest it within five minutes’ and they’ll come back,” she recounted. The lack of prior warning and the abruptness of the situation have left many traders like Gardner scrambling to find alternative means to sustain their livelihoods.

The Road Ahead for Traders

The sudden shutdown of Market Village has raised numerous questions and concerns among the traders. With limited access to their stock and an abrupt end to their businesses, they face an uphill battle in managing their financial responsibilities and planning their future course of action. The community awaits further information and hopes for a viable resolution to this unexpected crisis.

Source: https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/market-village-traders-say-diabolical-28441249