Market review under discussion
Released: 1 August 2007
The current situation at Wolverhampton city centre’s indoor and outdoor markets will be discussed at a meeting between traders and council officers tonight. The private meeting will take place at the Civic Centre and all traders have been invited.
Like many markets across the country, Wolverhampton city centre markets have suffered from an ongoing decline in trading activity in recent years. As a result the markets are now in a serious financial position.
At tonight’s meeting, Steve Boyes, the council’s Director of Regeneration and Environment will tell traders that the situation is no longer sustainable and doing nothing is not an option.
He will say that the city council’s cabinet is to be asked to authorise a further review into the future operation of the city centre market when they meet in September. The review will look at various options for the future of both the indoor and outdoor markets.
Steve Boyes said: “It is no secret that the city centre markets are struggling. Customers have declined, plots are lying empty and the service is running at a loss that we cannot allow to continue. The current situation is unfair to traders and the people of Wolverhampton. It is important that we discuss the situation with traders.
“I must stress that nothing has been decided yet. The council’s cabinet is being asked to authorise this comprehensive review which will look at a range of options and will take into account the views of all stakeholders including traders and citizens.
“We are committed to explore in conjunction with the various stakeholders how we can best deliver a sustainable market within our city centre.”
Issued by the press office.
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