Bury Food and Drink Festival postponed after RAAC found at market

Last month, it was announced that the festival would offer pop-up food markets, artisan drinks, craft stalls, music and live entertainment for five days from November 8.

It was set to be spread across the town centre at the market, Mill Gate Shopping Centre and Market Square.

But late on Thursday, October 26, Bury Market was rocked by the discovery of RAAC, which is known to be susceptible to structural failure, at its indoor market.

The indoor market was then closed and 49 traders operating from 62 units have been affected.

Read more: Work ongoing to help Bury Indoor Market traders after RAAC closure

Despite the postponement of the event, it has been confirmed that the Bury Beer Festival will still go ahead on November 10 and 11 at The Met as planned.

A Bury Food and Drink Festival spokesperson said: “Due to investigative work on the building and roof of the Market Hall, and while all affected market traders are appropriately and safely relocated, we’ve taken the decision to postpone the upcoming food and drink festival until further notice.

“While this news is disappointing, we look forward to delivering the first ever food and drink festival in the heart of Bury in the not-too-distant future.

“Bury Beer Festival will go ahead as normal at The Met on November 10 and 11.”

Read more: Bury Indoor Market closed over RAAC safety concerns

A council spokesperson added: “It is with massive regret that we will be postponing the Bury Food and Drink Festival.

“While we work on appropriately relocating our Market Hall stallholders who are currently unable to trade due to safety investigations, it isn't feasible for the festival to take place.

“Although it's very disappointing, please be sure to look out for our announcement of the rescheduled date, for what will still be an amazing event!”

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