Long Sutton residents are being encouraged to respond to a consultation on the area’s markets.
The future of the town’s market and a proposed Market Traders Handbook are being considered by South Holland District Council, which has asked for people’s views.
Long Sutton Parish Council has spoken to stall holders in the town who have voiced their concerns that if all the proposals in the handbook, along with and the district council’s intention to add further costs to Long Sutton market traders for the costs of the weekly road closures, will mean it’s no longer financially viable to come to the town and they may go to other markets outside South Holland.
A parish council spokesman said: “Long Sutton’s Market Charter can be dated back to 1202 when King John granted the rights for a weekly Friday market when the town was a prosperous trading centre.
“The market is part of the town’s history and the district council is bound to honour the Charter.
“However, as recently as 2017 South Holland District Council sought to close the market but the town fought back and a reprieve was achieved but in 2020 the market’s future was again threatened during the COVID-19 restrictions.
“Thankfully after protesting against the measures put in place the parish council was pleased after its intervention that the market was saved and is now back in the Market Place.
“Previously South Holland District Council tried to close the market under health and safety concerns and now with the market safer than ever it is seeking to implement a raise in charges that would mean some stalls could pay £150-£180 for one day or more if the road closure costs are added to Long Sutton traders.
“The market is a well loved and integral part of the town.
“The traders who attend the market are loyal and regular stall holders.
“Let us support them and their livelihoods particularly after the difficulties they have overcome to support us through the pandemic.
“Please respond to the consultation and add your own views to the SHDC in addition to the survey.
The markets consultation closes at 5pm on July 30.
