Rents at Brigg and Ashby markets have been cut, in some cases to as low as £5 a pitch, to persuade more people to start trading.
Changes in the set up of the markets have provided some savings to the council and these savings have been passed on to the traders, in the hope that more people will take the opportunity to become entrepreneurs and join the market.
The previous rent at Ashby market was £18. This has been cut to £5 per pitch, or £10 where the council provides a gazebo and weights.
In Brigg, the rent was £18, which has been cut to £9 per stall. The rent for the farmers’ market was £25, but this has been reduced to £12.50.
North Lincolnshire Council leader Rob Waltham said: “If you have every wanted to run your own business, or turn a skill or hobby into a business, now is the time to step up and give it a go. These are two vibrant markets in the heart of the community, and this rent cut makes them accessible to all.”
Cllr Carl Sherwood, cabinet member for community wellbeing (rural), said: “Leaving the stalls up in Brigg will mean they can be used by community groups and charities to hold pop-up markets, increasing the viability of the town centre. Also local town centre enterprises will be able to use the stalls when the market isn’t in use.
“The changes to Ashby Market make it more sustainable and attractive to traders.”
The markets run at Brigg and Ashby every Thursday from 8am, however bad weather may affect the number of stalls.
In Brigg, the farmers’ market is held on the fourth Saturday of every month, Brigg Arts & Craft market is every second Saturday and Brigg Indie Market is every third Saturday.
Image: Cllr Carl Sherwood, cabinet member for community wellbeing (rural) at North Lincolnshire Council, with council leader Rob Waltham. Credit: North Lincolnshire Council