Traders in line to manage Dudley Market
Traders will take over the day-to-day running of Dudley Market for the first time under new plans revealed today.
Talks have been taking place between Dudley Council and a small number of stallholders.
Officials said traders had 'expressed a desire' to take over the day-to-day running of the six-day-a-week market.
The project would see a non-profit organisation set up, with traders taking over direct management for the market for an initial period of 12 months.
It would build on the market's appeal and allow specialist events to be introduced during the evening and on Sundays to boost visitor numbers in the town.
The scheme will be discussed at a meeting of the council's cabinet on March 11. If approved, the traders would take over the running of the market on August 1.
Cabinet member for regeneration on Dudley Council, Councillor Judy Foster said: "Subject to approval, the council will work with traders on joint marketing programmes and activities."
Chair of Dudley market traders Len Lenihan said: "We can see the potential of protecting the traditional market as well as doing things differently to attract new shoppers and visitors.
"We now feel the time is right. We want to help shape, grow and influence the market in the months and years ahead."
