To consider the result of the consultations undertaken on the proposed relocation of the Hereford Open Retail Market into the St Peter’s Street/High Town interface and Commercial Street each Saturday and Wednesday, and to seek Cabinet approval of the recommendations for the implementation of the market.

The Cabinet Member, Economic Development and Community Services presented the report to Cabinet, which outlined the result of the consultations undertaken on the proposed relocation of the Hereford Open Retail Market into the St Peter’s Street/High Town interface and Commercial Street each Wednesday and Saturday. 

The Cabinet Member referred to the recommendations in the report and advised that it was subject to the caveat that a one year trial period would be undertaken followed on by a detailed study of the effectiveness of the new arrangements.  He emphasised that a detailed analysis of the footfall in the Butter Market itself would also be undertaken as there was understandably, considerable concern by the Butter Market stall holders over the new proposals.  The Cabinet Member went on to recommend two further courses of action, that there be a detailed review of the strategy surrounding the policy of selecting new stallholders i.e. the quality of the retail offered and its geographical origin, and that a retail impact study be conducted as soon as possible.

Cabinet reiterated the need for a twelve month trial period and to ensure that the right balance was struck on the type of stalls used to ensure they were attractive to customers.  It was stated that where this had been carried out in other areas the market had been effective in attracting business into the city and that other retailers had also benefitted substantially, with new trade being brought into the retail area.  Cabinet emphasised it was essential to ensure that Butter Market stall holders did not loose any trade.

The Chairman of Strategic Monitoring Committee stated he was concerned with the overhead costs for retailers compared with those for stall holders and that it was vital to get the balance correct.

The local Ward Member, Councillor Hubbard spoke at the invitation of the Chairman and stated that he enjoyed street markets, which, when well presented, could be a benefit to an area.  He believed that Hereford city had a good markets officer who addressed the issues raised, however, he had some concerns, which were:

• That the consultation exercise took place in the run up to Christmas in a time of recession.
• There were a number of retail stores where their views on the consultation had not been gained as the relevant Head offices had not responded during the consultation time frame.
• A number of street traders did not appear to be represented.
• The view of a number of associated traders had been reflected as being in support of the proposals but it was believed, after speaking with traders, this was not necessarily a true reflection.
• The views of the Farmers’ market stall holders had not been reflected.
• The Hereford City Partnership, the City Council and ESG Ltd., were not in agreement with the proposals and this was not reflected in the report.

Councillor Hubbard added that he was of the opinion that the regeneration of the Butter Market would be very significant and was very concerned at the  ...  view the full minutes text for item 89