Knaresborough Town Council has revealed potential new additions to the town's market as it prepares for its future.
As part of the "ambitious plans", the council has set up a Market Working Group and appointed a consultant with experience of market operation.
Potential activities could include educational opportunities for schools, an informal stage for local musicians, and an information point where residents can talk to local support groups.
Councillor Hannah Gostlow said:
“Our market has been at the centre of life in Knaresborough for over 700 years and we are determined to secure its future and to encourage new traders to join us.
“The town grew up around the market place. It’s where the town can come to life, and we want there to be activities alongside the traditional market to involve everyone in the community.”
Cllr Gostlow added:
“But of course, first and foremost we need to support the local economy by looking after our traders and local businesses.”
Detailed discussions are underway with officers from North Yorkshire Council about the potential transfer of the market’s management and operation to the Town Council, but these will take time.
The Town Clerk said:
“It’s one step at a time because we are dealing with people’s livelihoods as well as ancient laws; and we also need to act in the best interests of the residents of Knaresborough.”
The transfer of the market is part of North Yorkshire Council’s ‘Double Devolution’ strategy to provide opportunities for town and parish council and community groups to manage services and assets.
Any transfer needs to be at no cost to North Yorkshire Council and, in the case of Knaresborough Market, to be financially viable for the Town Council.
The final decision on the transfer will be taken by the Executive of North Yorkshire Council when all arrangements and financial considerations are in place
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