Market action plan begins to pay off

An action plan for Newark Market has begun and is already starting to work, councillors have been told.

Mr Bruce Laughton, the cabinet member with responsibility for the market, told Newark and Sherwood District Council services overview and scrutiny the market was an essential part of shopping in Newark, which was why the plan was so important.

He said they had already started to see positive signs.

He said it was planned to look at Southwell and Ollerton markets to see how they could be helped.

The council’s markets business manager, Mr Ian Harrison, said 90% of retailers felt the market was essential to sustaining a good customer footfall in Newark.

He said they wanted to promote the market, including targeting younger shoppers.

A loyalty discount scheme has started.

Mr Harrison said they hoped to have a themed market programme and use local entertainers. A continental market and Christmas market could return.

Mr Peter Duncan said the market created a very difference experience to shopping on the internet.

He said they were getting back to the position where it was very successful.

“We are getting the traders on our side,” he said. “Now we need to get traders to talk to others traders about the market.”

Mr David Lloyd said not all market towns were in decline and those that were had stuck their heads in the sand, unlike Newark.