KIRKBY Market is reporting its highest occupancy rates for more than seven years.

Over its three trading days, the current average occupancy rate is 93%. This is compared with an average of only 85% at the beginning of April this year.

The pitches are proving so popular with traders that there is currently no more space available on a Tuesday, with Fridays and Saturdays also filling up fast.

Cllr Dave Lonergan, cabinet member for regeneration, economy & skills on Knowsley Council, said: “We have seen a real increase in the number of traders taking space week on week and this has continued to rise.

“The current figures are the best we have seen in years and, despite difficult financial times for us all, the market is doing really well.

“It is a really encouraging sign not only for the market itself but for the wider town centre and these figures come before £1.5m of improvements to the market are made.

“These planned improvements are in addition to the private investment of more than £200m that is due to be ploughed into regenerating the town centre.

“It definitely looks as if the future is bright for both shoppers and traders.”

Kirkby Market has been open since 1960 and only last year celebrated 50 years of trading.

The market boasts 130 stalls for both permanent and temporary traders, selling a wide variety of goods.

Cllr Lonergan added: “I think Kirkby market offers visitors a unique shopping experience and I think it really captures the current trend for shopping locally.

“There is always something for everyone and with such a vibrant and exciting atmosphere. As for traders, they can always be sure of a bustling atmosphere and in the current economic climate I think the flexibility that is offered from casual as well as permanent pitches is appealing.”