Have a say on Spalding, Holbeach, Long Sutton and Crowland's markets

People are being asked for their say on the future of South Holland's markets.

Council bosses say they want to hear from traders, retailers and shoppers as it updates its 'market regulations handbook'.

The handbook, last updated five years ago, sets out the fees and charges for the markets in Spalding, Holbeach, Long Sutton and Crowland

It also contains proposals to continue to develop the markets, including promotion, the ongoing support offered and the booking process.

Pop up stalls - gazebos with a table - are also available to support new stallholders and micro-businesses looking to get off the ground.

These pitches will be available for a six-week period for what's described as a 'small fee'.

The council will also continue to offer one free charity stall pitch on all of its markets.

Fees and charges have been waived since the beginning of the pandemic - and will come back from October.

Councillor Roger Gambba-Jones, portfolio holder for environmental services, said: "We are committed to continuing to develop sustainable markets across the district for our traders, keeping fees as low as possible and ensuring our markets remain a key attraction for our residents and a chosen destination for shoppers seeking excellent quality at keen prices.

"This public consultation gives people the opportunity to share their thoughts on markets, what they would like to see at them and what they think of our proposals for their future development.

"We want to make them accessible to new businesses, ensure fairness for all our traders and make our markets the primary destination to shop in the district. If you have an opinion, please take the time to complete the form and let us know what that is."

The council says the fees are needed to cover the cost of running the markets.

The price of all stalls will be the same - although in Long Sutton there will need to be a contribution to the costs of closing the road.

The new fees would be reviewed annually - and the council says they could go down if the number of traders rise.

More information, including the draft Market Regulations Handbook and link to the online survey can be found at www.sholland.gov.uk/marketsconsultation.

The public consultation will run for six weeks, closing at 5pm on Friday 30 July.

Comments can also be emailed to markets@sholland.gov.uk or submitted in writing to Market Regulations Handbook Consultation, Environmental Services, South Holland District Council, Priory Road, Spalding, PE11 2XE.