Market set to reopen after cockroach issue cleared

Sheffield Moor Market is set to reopen on Monday after a cockroach infestation forced a two-week closure.

The city council said an "extensive programme of treatment, deep cleaning and monitoring" had taken place, with no pest activity for two consecutive days.

The source of the outbreak has not been disclosed, but the authority previously said the recent period of "extreme and sustained hot weather" had created conditions that can increase pest activity.

Mark Rusling, who chairs the council's environmental services and regulation policy committee, said: "Our focus now is on looking forward, reopening successfully and supporting traders to recover and thrive in the weeks and months ahead."

Rusling said environmental health officers and specialist pest control contractors were now "satisfied that the market can safely reopen to the public".

"The market will continue to be monitored, and enhanced prevention measures will remain in place as an additional safeguard," the Labour councillor added.

The purpose-built market, which opened in 2013, is home to more than 90 independent traders.

Rusling said traders had "worked tirelessly to clean and prepare their units, support the treatment programme and help ensure the market is ready to welcome customers back".

During the closure, traders previously told the BBC they had lost business as a result of the pest problem and had been uncertain about the length of the closure.

"We know this closure has been incredibly difficult for traders and their businesses," he added.

"The market is home to some of Sheffield's best independent businesses and we are looking forward to welcoming customers back through the doors."

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