Issue - meetings

To receive a briefing paper from the Market Managers outlining the findings from an audit. To also inform Members on the background governance work at the Pannier Market and progress on actions to date to improve the Market environment, trader retention and customer footfall.

The group had before it, and NOTED, a briefing paper * from the Market Manager outlining the findings from a review. It also provided information on the background governance work at the Pannier Market and progress on actions to date to improve the market environment, trader retention and customer footfall.

The Market Manager explained that the report provided background information in relation to many of the issues discussed at previous meetings of this Group. A thorough review had taken place identifying the issues and proposed actions needed in order to achieve improvements in relation to increasing income, reducing expenditure, increasing footfall and improving the market governance.

Discussion took place regarding:

·         Painting would shortly commence in the market.

·         A feasibility study would be undertaken in May to ascertain the best time to hold a farmers market. Demographics needed to be looked at as well as what would be the best day of the week and time of day.

·         The market could be the centre for regeneration.

·         There were still some outstanding payments due to the Council from traders attending recent events.

·         WiFi connectivity was not currently stable throughout the site.

·         The measurement of pitches between pillars.

·         There were old rights for long standing traders although these agreements were verbal.

·         Competition between businesses within the town

Note: * Briefing paper previously circulated; copy attached to the signed minutes.