Published: June 24, 2009
Exclusive: Plans unveiled for new markets in Highbridge town centre

Plans for new markets to be re-introduced into the centre of Highbridge have been unveiled this week.

The town's Bank Street Car Park looks set to become the venue for the new food and produce markets, which would be run by a third party, MarketForces.

The proposals were this week welcomed by local councillors, who say such markets could bring shoppers back into the town and also help to safeguard the future of the closure-threatened car park.

Cllr Joe Leach, pictured holding a set of the plans in the car park, told Burnham-On-Sea.com: "The idea is to retain a market and to allow the car park more regular use."

"This is a central location and, as such, will hopefully provide support for our shops too. I'm pleased this idea is being supported and hope that local people will back it."

If granted approval by Sedgemoor District Council and the Town Council, the market would initially include 25 stalls and occupy approximately 14 car parking spaces. It would be scheduled to be held on specific dates to avoid clashes with other markets.

Town councillor Neville Jones also gave his support to the plans during a town council meeting held on Monday (June 22nd).

He said: "We already have a very successful farmers' market in Burnham, so why shouldn't Highbridge have a similar one too? It can only be good."

Sunday markets at the former Highbridge Cattle Market have not been held for several months due to the site's owner moving them to Bridgwater ahead of a planned development of the site.

A final decision on whether to introduce the markets into Highbridge will be made by the Town Council in early July.