Market ideas sought

Alfresco dining and themed days to attract visitors to Bingham Market Place are just two ideas being put forward to make better use of the town’s centrepiece.

Rushcliffe Borough Council is looking for ideas to make more use of the square, which is mainly used for the Thursday market and occasional farmers’ markets.

Mr Francis Purdue-Horan, a town councillor, said it was a tremendous idea.

“There are no other villages or towns around here that are identified by their Market Place. Perhaps we do not exploit its opportunities,” he said.

“The themed idea is a very good one. We need to show that we support our local businesses.

“Perhaps businesses could bring extra services on to the Market Place. For example, they could provide hospitality with tables and chairs on there.

“It doesn’t only have to be businesses around the Market Place, it could also be those elsewhere.”

Mr Clive Lancaster, whose butcher’s shop is on Eaton Place, said: “It is a good idea to have things on the Market Place because it makes it interesting for shoppers.

“Anything that brings people in is a good thing.”

Building on the success of the farmers’ markets, he suggested themed activities such as a French day when businesses could focus on selling produce from that country.

Mr Lancaster said: “It could create a lot of interest and bring a lot of people into the town.”

Mrs Sue Hull suggested children’s events such as Punch and Judy shows or juggling.

A borough council spokesman said: “The Market Place is a valuable public space, which is currently used for a market one day a week, periodic farmers’ markets and town fairs.

“The council simply wished to establish whether the town council had views on any other uses or constraints on this valuable asset.”