Decision details

*RESOLVED

1.   That the fees and charges for the Chesterfield Open Markets for 2023/24, as detailed in Appendix 1 of the officer’s report, be approved.

2.   That the agreed 2023/24 rates of fees and charges be introduced from 3 April 2023.

3.   That as part of the market reconfiguration project being undertaken between 2021 and 2025, approval be given to a review of the pricing structure during this time, identifying the premium and secondary pitches, following best practice adopted nationally and ensuring a value for money approach is taken to realise the full income potential of the market.  The new fees and charges to be adopted for 2024/25, subject to the necessary consultation and approvals procedures.

4.   That authority be delegated to the Service Director for Leisure, Culture and Community Wellbeing, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Town Centre and Visitor Economy, to apply appropriate negotiated fees for new activities and opportunities that are introduced during the financial year 2023/24.

REASONS FOR DECISIONS

1.   Supporting the town centre economy is at the heart of what we do and continues to be a key priority for the Council.  It is necessary to sensitively increase stall fees to ensure the cost effectiveness of a Markets operation in relation to increases being seen in maintenance costs, energy costs and staffing costs.  There has been no increase in fees since 2016.

2.   The impact of COVID-19 significantly reduced Markets occupancy and income in 2021/22, traders were supported through this period with initially rent free and then reduced rents of £5 and then £10.  Full rents did not resume until 28 February 2022.  Trader numbers have continued to decline and 2022/23 levels of income remain significantly lower than anticipated for the 2022/23 financial year so any rise in stall fees needs to be sensitive.

3.   As part of the Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield project the open market is set to benefit from a £1.15 million intervention alongside a wider Northern Gateway and public realm scheme.  It is anticipated that this will help support, strengthen and re-invigorate the market area ensuring it is ready to meet the future demands of the town centre.