Cherwell District Council Launches Free Market Stalls Initiative to Boost Local Economy
Efforts to invigorate local markets with complimentary stalls run until the end of March.
The Cherwell District Council is turning the winter economic tide by offering free and discounted market stalls to traders at Banbury Market and other local markets, kicking off this weekend. This initiative will run until the end of March 2025 and aims to significantly bolster the local economy, supporting small businesses and increasing foot traffic to urban centers during typically slower months.
Traders, both new and established, will benefit from waved pitch fees traditionally costing between £20 and £30 per day, thereby lowering financial barriers. This program is empowered by funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, which is intended to stimulate local economies particularly hit during the colder winter months.
According to Councillor Lesley McLean, Deputy Leader of Cherwell District Council and Portfolio Holder for Finance, Property and Regeneration, the market initiative is not just about economics; it reinforces the district's identity and history. “Our markets are a cornerstone of the district’s identity and heritage,” McLean stated. “These special offers provide the support necessary for small businesses during the quieter winter months and encourage new entrepreneurs to join our thriving market community.”
The call for more traders to join the market scene reflects the council's broader commitment to revitalizing urban centers throughout Cherwell. Councillor Ian Middleton, Portfolio Holder for Neighbourhood Services, added, “Supporting traders who are pivotal to the heart of our communities is a priority,” noting his personal experience as a former market trader. “We want our urban centers to continue flourishing, and we encourage everyone to visit our markets to support the diverse small retail businesses thriving within our towns and villages.”
Additional initiatives accompanying the fee waivers are also underway, including rent offers provided by market associations to community groups and charities, which could expand the diversity of offerings at these markets. Emma Gould, manager of Bicester’s Friday Market, expressed optimism about the initiative’s positive impact, saying, “We are delighted to see these initiatives supporting our markets. They provide much-needed assistance for both existing and new traders, as well as the wider community.”
The winter months can frequently challenge market traders, but the new policy aims to provide stability and encourage participation. The absence of fees allows potential vendors to showcase their goods without the unyielding overhead, thereby opening doors for small businesses to grow and develop their brand within the community.
Throughout history, markets have played integral roles as community hubs. The right to have weekly markets was granted to Banbury by Queen Mary Tudor via charter back in 1554. Cherwell District Council's efforts to support market trades encapsulate this long-standing tradition.
For residents and visitors, this forward-thinking initiative is not only about supporting vendors but ensuring vibrant community interactions within local commerce. The council encourages everyone to take part and explore the wealth of offerings available at Banbury, Bicester, Kidlington, and beyond.
Community engagement is imperative to the vitality of local economies, especially during transitional periods such as the winter months. The market is also poised as the perfect setting for community members to come together, support local businesses, and enjoy regenerated market activities.
More information about this initiative and how to participate as a vendor can be found at the Banbury Charter Market website or by emailing [email protected].
With the promise of warmer weather and revitalized urban centers, the Cherwell District Council initiative sets itself as a potential turning point for local economies and community interactions.