Written by Simon Binns. Published on August 12th 2011.
CITY centre businesses shouldn't fear a public exodus this weekend as people vowed to eat drink and shop as normal in Manchester.
Confidential took to the streets to ask the city's workers if they had been put off from coming into Manchester over the weekend because of Tuesday night's riots.
But the majority said they would carry on as normal, as the fear caused by the disturbances begins to dissipate.
Mario Pezzino from Italy has been living in Manchester for four years and is now worried about coming into the city centre at night. “I think it’s fine to be out during the day but I’m going to stay in tonight and avoid the city centre," he said.
Others were waiting for pay day or had been out during the week and didn't see a need to visit the centre this weekend.
But people who were going out said they would spend an average of £50 on a night out this weekend.
We also stopped people on Deansgate and in Spinningfields, where most people we spoke to were aged between 20-35.
Most felt happy to still shop on Market Street, St Ann’s Square and Deansgate and one woman was out shopping for an outfit for Saturday night as we spoke to her.
The Printworks and the Northern Quarter were also on the cards for a lot of the people we spoke to.
There are fears that people will stay away this weekend, costing businesses tens of thousands of pounds. Most that we met had moved on from Tuesday night and were ready to support the weekend economy.
Come see Nate or Dan at Epernay tonight when you get in and we'll get you your first glass of champagne!!! We love your spirit! Its good to see the people of Manchester will not be shaken!!