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Byron Community Market moving in bid to draw crowd to CBD

A popular northern NSW market first held in 1987 is shifting into Byron Bay CBD next month. Here’s what prompted the move.

Byron Community Market. Picture: Kurt Petersen
Byron Community Market. Picture: Kurt Petersen

The much-loved Byron Community Market is permanently moving to the town centre in a bid to get more people instead of vehicles into the CBD.

The move from the Main Beach foreshore will take place on March 5.

The market is set to spread through the recently revamped Railway Precinct, Railway Park and onto a section of Jonson St – between Marvel St and Byron St – on the first Sunday of every month.

The Thrive Natural Remedies store at Byron Community Market. Picture: Kurt Petersen
The Thrive Natural Remedies store at Byron Community Market. Picture: Kurt Petersen

This section of the road will be closed off when the market is on and traffic detours will be in place.

Byron Shire Mayor Michael Lyon said the relocation will “bring people instead of cars into the CBD”.

“Many people are not aware of the large amount of green space in the CBD and it will be terrific to see it full of people,” he said.

Byron Mayor Michael Lyon wants to bring more people into the CBD. Picture: Julian Meehan.
Byron Mayor Michael Lyon wants to bring more people into the CBD. Picture: Julian Meehan.

“We think that moving the community market to the town centre will be extremely positive for stall holders, businesses, visitors and of course locals.”

Markets Manager Kate Hardman said “we are excited to be moving to the town centre and bringing our unique marketplace to the heart of Byron Bay”.

Byron Community Market. Picture: Kurt Petersen
Byron Community Market. Picture: Kurt Petersen

“Our vendors are passionate about bringing a diverse range of products and services, and we believe that this move will provide them with a great opportunity to showcase the Northern Rivers in one iconic location,” she said.

“We are committed to supporting local small businesses and providing a platform for them to thrive.”

A man pouring a coffee at the Byron Community Market last year. Picture: Kurt Petersen
A man pouring a coffee at the Byron Community Market last year. Picture: Kurt Petersen

The market used to be held at Butler St Reserve but was moved to the beachfront in July 2019 when the park was closed due to construction at the Byron Bay bypass.

The Main Beach foreshore was always supposed to a temporary location.

Byron Community Market. Picture: Kurt Petersen
Byron Community Market. Picture: Kurt Petersen

The market is a social enterprise managed by the Byron Community Centre that contributes to services and programs, including homeless hub Fletcher Street Cottage.

The Byron Community Market began in 1987.

Original URL: https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/regional/byron-bay-community-market-moving-in-bid-to-draw-crowd-to-cbd/news-story/ebd2d30561c5f8e92bc9398e769f5daa