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Long-awaited opening for Chemainus Public Market

All components not up and running just yet, but will be soon
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Chemainus Public Market manager Laurie Douglas is ecstatic that the public can finally enjoy the amenities of the building. (Photo by Don Bodger)

The Chemainus Public Market is now open seven days a week, but on a limited basis for the initial start-up.

Monday, June 1 marked the first official day for the public to check out the market, even though all the components of the site aren’t up and running yet.

“We have a couple of table vendors coming and one of our permanent vendors,” said Market Manager Laurie Douglas of Monday’s debut. “The rest of the vendors will be here by the 15th of June.”

The arcade area is also open.

It’s a slow opening, but a long time coming and a welcome day for all those involved in the project within the heart of downtown Chemainus.

Related: Chemainus Public Market vendors venture outdoors

An announcement will be made later about opening dates for Archie’s Ice Cream Parlour and Diner and Captain Andy’s Fish and Chips. The eateries are expected to be popular features of the new market.

“It’s not all together yet, but gradual is better,” said Douglas.

Social distancing measures must be followed.

“We’re just kind of monitoring and making sure people keep their distance,” Douglas noted.

The arcade section will be limited to five people at a time.

“It’s so close quarters there,” Douglas indicated.

The market is open from 9 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. each day for now.



Don Bodger

About the Author: Don Bodger

I've been a part of the newspaper industry since 1980 when I began on a part-time basis covering sports for the Ladysmith-Chemainus Chronicle.
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