Extra measures are being put in place at Keswick market to help keep people safe.
The number of stalls will be reduced and extra marshalls will be employed to help with a one-way system around the market.
The market, which restarted on June 18 after it was suspended due to the coronavirus pandemic in March, is run by Allerdale council.
People have raised concerns about a lack of social distancing on market days in the town centre and an online petition was launched to ask the authority to close or move the market.
In response, an online petition was set up for people to support the market where it is.
The council said: “Extra measures will be introduced from tomorrow following concerns raised about social distancing in Keswick town centre and how the market may be contributing to the issue.
“The council urges everyone going into the town centre and the market to please respect social distancing and the measures that are in place to help keep residents, visitors, traders and staff safe.”
Meetings between Allerdale officers councillors, the county council and Keswick Town Council have taken place this week to discuss the measures.
The new measures will be in addition to those already in place and the one-way system for pedestrians introduced in Main Street at the end of last week.
Market traders and marshalls will also be asked to wear face coverings where possible and will be advising visitors to do the same.
However, some market traders are unhappy about the extra measures.
Kevin Roberts, of Kev’s Hardware, said: “I have had two of my market stalls taken from me and this will greatly affect my business.
“I am really disappointed with Allerdale council, they increased our rent last week and have now ruined my business by reducing my stall by half, which in turn will reduce my stock levels by 60 per cent. Would a better suggestion to be reduce the car parking spaces, so reducing the amount of visitors?”
Allerdale council said an option to spread stalls out into another area of the town centre is also being considered, and a consultation of residents and businesses due to take place soon.
Mike Johnson, Allerdale’s deputy leader, said: “The council has worked hard alongside our partners to make the Keswick Market site as safe as possible for everyone and we will continue to monitor the situation going forward.
“I ask everyone who attends to respect the measures we’ve put in place so the experience of going into Keswick town centre can be enjoyable for all.”
Paul Titley, mayor of Keswick, said: “The town council’s number one objective is to keep Keswick safe. We expect these changes to the market will restore a safe environment to the square. Councillors will be assisting marshalls on market day. If residents are not satisfied we will think again.”
Councillor Tony Lywood, Cumbria County Council member for Keswick, said: “Keswick market is hugely important to the lifeblood of the town, indeed its popularity and lack of space is exactly the issue.
“I support any measures that make the market safer with proper social distancing and we are now all working together to make this a reality. The balance between safety and large numbers is a very tricky one, but if we don’t get it right the consequences are dire for all of us. We want to welcome everyone but it must be in an environment that is as safe.”
