September 8th, 2011
Plans to deliver a regular street market in Eastbourne town centre were approved at a council cabinet meeting on Wednesday.
Members agreed to consult on a new Street Trading policy which will allow the introduction of a street market in Terminus Road, currently suggested towards the end closest to the town's seafront.
The consultation aims to reform the constraints of a current street trading policy, approved in 1999, which prevents a regular street market from taking place.
Cllr. David Tutt, Leader of the Council, said: "This is a fantastic opportunity to energise and enhance the town and create a vibrant community focus.
"The current policy states that street trading ‘should not be encouraged’ and only allows street trading to take place when it is part of another event, which is too restrictive.
"The new proposal is a great chance to promote diversity and regeneration in the town. It will offer something new to a different part of our town centre that will compliment the recently announced plans to expand the Arndale Centre.”
Suggestions for stalls include a farmer's market, antiques, books and art and craft stalls that compliment rather than compete with the existing town centre shops. Initially the market would be monthly or fortnightly but eventually could become weekly.
It is expected that up to 32 stalls could be placed between the Seafront and Langney Road with around 20 of these between the Seafront and Seaside Road. Normal vehicle access to the seafront end of Terminus Road would be closed on market days.
Businesses have shown support for the market including the owners of the Enterprise Shopping Centre, Independent Traders Association and East Sussex Highways.
A wide consultation process, including businesses, emergency services and transport providers, will take place to ensure that all those affected by the proposed Street Trading Policy are fully involved so that the final policy can be informed by the communities’ comments.
