Markets Matter: West Suffolk Council approves launch of new West Suffolk Markets Development Plan 2024 to empower local markets

25 Jul 2024

In a strategic move aimed at rejuvenating the local economy, developing sustainable growth and supporting small businesses, West Suffolk Council’s Cabinet approved the launch of its new West Suffolk Markets Development Plan at their meeting on Tuesday 24 July 2024. The initiative is designed to provide local markets with the tools, resources, and support necessary to thrive in today’s competitive landscape.

The development plan sets out a three-year ambition for the future of West Suffolk markets with the individual needs of the towns, its traders and residents at the heart of the council’s vision. 

The markets are currently operated by West Suffolk Council between twice weekly and monthly across six towns: Brandon, Bury St Edmunds, Clare, Haverhill, Mildenhall and Newmarket, with approximately 123 permanent traders between them.

Building on the success of West Suffolk markets and to support them in the future, the development plan will use the £300,000 funding across the three years to fulfil following outcomes:

• A wider variety of traders and events operating in the towns.
• More traders engaging in business support.
• Increased awareness of West Suffolk markets.
• A positive community narrative around the markets.
• Increased footfall to markets and town centres.
• Reduced environmental impact from the markets.

Cllr Indy Wijenayaka, Cabinet Member for Growth, said: "We believe that local markets are the heart of our community, and their success is integral to the overall health of our local economy. Markets are in a period of transition and support is needed for future development, led by West Suffolk Council but supported in partnership by local stakeholders, traders and visitors across the towns. Our West Suffolk Markets Development Plan is designed to empower vendors, attract more visitors, and ultimately create a vibrant marketplace that benefits everyone."

With the aim of improving how markets are operated based on insights gained through engagement with residents, traders and visitors to the market, the overarching plan outlines a variety of measures ranging from short to long-term timescales with tailored place-based initiatives.

By delivering these changes and providing increased and individualised support to West Suffolk towns, markets will be supported into the future, with the resilience to further adapt and evolve over time.
 

---