Manchester Arndale markets remain shut for essential repairs following fire

Manchester Arndale markets remain closed following a fire last week - with traders providing an update to customers.

Firefighters were called to the Arndale at about 4pm on Friday (November 10) after a blaze broke out on one of the stalls in the south side of the market hall which led to a full evacuation of the centre.

The shopping centre reopened shortly after 90 minutes, but the markets have remained closed since. A sign in the market area, posted by Manchester Council, said the site was still closed with no access for traders, employees or members of the public.

READ MORE: Aitch heads to Manchester Christmas Markets - and straight to iconic stall

READ MORE: Sacha Lord and MasterChef winner Simon Wood to host Christmas dinner for Manchester’s most deserving people - here’s how to nominate

Manchester Council has now told the M.E.N that the markets will remain closed until a full site assessment and repair works have taken place. Traders are being kept informed of progress.

Brazilian food stall Little Piece of Bahia, which currently also has a base in Piccadilly Gardens for the Manchester Christmas Markets, posted a heartfelt message on Instagram to say that their store was closed with delivery services also suspended.

The post on social media, which has since been translated via Google, owner Camila Vargas said: “We are all appalled by the fire at @arndalemarket, with everyone's losses, but thank God no one was hurt.

“Due to this incident, the store is closed, and delivery is suspended until the location is released again. We appreciate everyone's understanding and ask for your prayers so that we can return as soon as possible! Rebuild and continue serving everyone with our food.”

Over the weekend, owners of the