Minutes:
CT joined the meeting virtually.
BS advised the working group met prior to this evenings Town Team meeting and provided a verbal update of that meeting.
The working group were asked to look at the following points;
1. Contingency for adverse weather:
Due to the two markets requiring to be cancelled in 2025 being in the months of October and December and due to adverse weather conditions, the working group proposed future markets be held between the months of April and September. It was felt these months would be a better option as the weather is less inclement.
The working group suggested establishing a more permanent indoor option if the weather remains unpredictable during winter, such as using the Guildhall. However, it was recognised stall holders would need to be informed well in advance. Consideration was also given to the potential space for a gazebo outside of the Banking hub as it is less exposed to the wind.
BS spoke of Torpoint Town Council and their Sunday markets from March to November. The Town Clerk advised she had previously spoke to Torpoint Town Council regarding how they operate their markets and would share the information received with BS/PR.
2. Comprehensive insurance:
BS confirmed she would contact Diverse Events as the event organiser to enquire if their existing insurance cover could be increased to include higher wind speeds.
3. Focus on Farmers Markets and locally sourced products and the reduction of market stalls to avoid road closures;
Members identified a small but viable option for a market area outside the Banking Hub, which they believe could accommodate approximately 6–7 stalls. Additional potential space was also noted along the wider pavement on Fore Street, particularly outside Morrisons and Superdrug. The working group discussed branding these as a “market trail” rather than “farmers markets”, allowing a wider range of suitable stalls to be positioned at various points along Fore Street. This would assist with a cost saving as road closures would not be required.
Members recognised there would still be the need to employ an events company to manage market days.
The working group suggested additional temporary signage around the town is key to assist in promoting the markets.
Members discussed how future markets would be funded to ensure they are sustainable.
The working group noted funding was available through the s106 ring fenced funds.
RB reminded Members that consideration to introduce a charge for stallholders should still be valid, however, the current priority is to ensure that the markets increase footfall in the town and have a positive impact on local town centre traders.
MR to provide data and feedback received that evidence the markets are viewed as beneficial to the Town Centre traders.
BS invited comments on the verbal report provided. Various questions were raised;
KJ noted that Members had previously considered employing a dedicated individual to manage the markets and asked whether any pricing had been obtained for this option. BS confirmed the previous contractor appointed to manage the markets will be contacted to request a detailed breakdown of costs, noting that a significant proportion of earlier expenses related to road closures.
KJ further recommended the Tamar Bridge as a potential location for signage and highlighted that holding markets in the Guildhall could result in damage to the carpet due to increased footfall, which should be taken into consideration.
BS added that, in the longer term, stallholders would need to begin paying for their market spaces. As their businesses grow, there may also be opportunities for them to move into currently vacant shop units on Fore Street.
Town Team Members noted the update and approved for the working group Members to continue to make enquiries to get the markets up and running for April, reporting back with the financial aspects requiring to be signed off.