Birstall
and Batley Markets Continue
Kirklees Council
confirmed today that an agreement has been reached with a private operator
which will secure the future of markets in Birstall and Batley.
Speaking
about the deal which will grant private market operator Peter McNulty a license
to hold markets in both towns after the council’s operation ends on 31st
March, Cllr Peter McBride, Lead Member for Investment and Housing said:
“I’m pleased
to say that we’ve found a solution which means that Batley and Birstall will
continue to have a weekly market. As our
residents are aware, the council has had to make tough decisions about where we
continue to provide essential provide services.
But as this shows, with a bit of creative thinking, where a council service
has come to an end, this has in fact created a commercial opportunity for a
local business, as well as securing the future for existing market traders who are
keen to continue.”
The new deal
will see Mr McNulty operate markets in both towns for the next 12 months in
much the same way as previous markets.
Market days will remain the same, and existing stall holders who wish to
continue will be able to do so with a minimal adjustment of less than 20p to
weekly stall prices. The initial agreement
is for a period of 12 months, but is likely to be extended if the markets are a
success.
Cllr McBride
added:
“We’re
delighted that Mr McNulty has stepped forward and seized the opportunity to put
these markets onto a more commercial footing - as I’m sure are the local
residents who enjoy shopping there, and the traders who make their living
there. Finding new ways of delivering
services will be a continuing challenge for us in the months and years to come;
but this goes to show that the end of council funding certainly doesn’t mean
the end of valued services and activities.”
Kirklees
Council has written to all affected traders to confirm details of future
operations, and invites new traders interested in the new market to contact Mr
McNulty direct.
Council Leader, David Sheard added "Despite dire predictions from Conservative Councillors who see no other way than spending council money a solution has been found that means the Markets continue without Council subsidy. This is a much more secure future for the Markets as the Conservative solution would see them under threat year on year as the Pickles attack on the North of England continues.
