Market under threat after council withdraws provision of gazebos

CONCERN has been expressed for the future of Frome’s Wednesday and Saturday markets following Mendip District Council’s decision to remove the provision of gazebos to market stall holders.
Frome town councillor, Mel Usher, says that the high cost of purchasing gazebos could potentially make it difficult for new local traders to join the market. Cllr Usher also suggests that the town council should take over the running of the market, accusing the district council of making decisions without the input of the town council, that aren’t for the good of the town.
The district council says the decision to remove the provision of gazebos at the Frome market and Shepton Mallet market has been made to ‘reduce the costs of running’ the market and to make it more ‘sustainable’.
A report released by Mendip District Council stated, “A review of the current service indicates it is not cost-effective to provide and maintain the gazebos. These gazebos are not in the best condition, and replacement costs are cost prohibitive. The income generated through rental is insufficient to cover the cost of purchase, maintenance and storage.”
In response to the news, cllr Usher said, “This means that the market traders have to provide their own gazebos and for one at least, that has cost £1,200. Some now have no gazebos and others have a variety of styles and colour.
“The main problem is that this decision makes it nigh on impossible for a new local trader to have a go. It does lead you to the question what do Mendip do for the charges they make?
“The second question is why just Shepton and Frome? What about Wells for example.
“The third question is what input has there been from local Frome councillors?
“Mendip says it wants to help town centres and build up the markets, yet their decisions as a council run contrary to this concept. If it doesn’t make money it has to stop!
“Markets are not just an income stream for the district council but an integral part of community life and yet we have no say at all.​ ​Perhaps the town council should take over the market?”
Frome Times asked the district council why this decision has only impacted markets in Frome and Shepton Mallet, and asked if they had considered the impact this decision might have on the future of the market.
In response, a spokesperson for Mendip District Council said, “Mendip District Council reviewed the market in Frome and in consultation with existing traders, a decision was made to remove the market gazebo provision from Frome Market and provide traders with the permission to bring their own gazebos, thus ensuring the viability of this market.
“The council are keen to encourage the success of the Frome Market, with the market officer working with existing and perspective traders to develop the market for the Frome community.
“Mendip District Council is presently implementing a social media strategy along with improved signage to encourage the growth of the market, while continuing to work in partnership with the town council to ensure the success of the markets for the town of Frome.”