Watford High Street shoppers give views on the market

Watford’s market has been given new investment, but some feel it still doesn’t compare to how it used to be in Charter Place.

Opinions in Watford High Street were mixed, as some appreciated the range of small businesses while others rarely visit anymore.

Temporary worker Matt Morrison, 27, said: “When I come into Watford on the weekends the market stalls always seem to be quite busy and even during the week, at lunchtime, the people selling food seem to do really well.

“I know a couple of the guys and they are really hardworking.

“The location is fine and it’s a really great idea.”

Telecom worker Alexander Brody Raphael McClelland, 29, added: “It’s a lot more professional now.

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“It’s a bit of a mishmash but I like the fact that whenever I have an interaction with the owners it seems like the are genuinely doing something they are passionate about.

“I would say, though, that the upper part needs to be advertised a bit more and it could probably be better placed location wise.”

Retiree Jacqueline Haynes, 75, said: “I wouldn’t even call it a market.

“Where are the fruit and veg stalls?

Elected Mayor Peter Taylor in Watford market

“The actual market in there has nothing that would interest me, it’s too small.

“It used to be so big before when it was in Charter Place it was lovely, but here, it doesn’t interest me.”

Cathy Sale, 72, added: “There aren't many stalls and the ones there are don’t have anything that would really interest you.”

Former teacher Angela Halpin, 58, said: “Honestly I don’t spend time in the market, but people have got to earn a living.”

Watford Market

Other shoppers mentioned the high quality of the food while some said they rarely visit at all.

Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, said: “Small businesses like the ones at Watford Market are the lifeblood of Watford’s economy and make a vital contribution to the success of our town.

"That’s why we have invested in a number of improvements that enhanced the character of the space and helped increase the number of visitors."

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