CLOSURE WILL HIT TRADERS

I AM writing regarding the much talked about issue of the footfall around Accrington Town Centre at this present time.

We do know Hyndburn Borough Council are now proposing to close the flea markets which take place on the Monday and Wednesday in the Market Place (‘Outdoor market to cut its hours by two days’, August 19). Some have been told that the reason for this is so that the Market Place can be cleaned.

All the markets there are completely finished between 2pm and 4pm - regardless of what type of market is taking place.

Most think this is an excuse that the council are scrapping the cheaper flea markets hoping to gain more more from the more costly ones, which some traders cannot afford.

On Wednesday, there are at least 50 people looking around the market at approximately 10am, not to mention all the others after that time.

The closing of these flea markets will reduce the footfall in the town on those days and drastically affect the existing traders in the town. This is happening at a time when these traders are being hit because of the relocation of the bus station and the creation of car parks on the old site of the bus station.

I have yet to hear any good comments about the new bus station.

Everyone has said that it is too far away and many people with mobility problems are really struggling.

Yes, it is nearer to the Arndale Centre but of what advantage is that?

There has been some talk of a shuttle bus from the market to the bus station.

That is OK but how much time should people have to spend waiting for and changing buses?

We have got the message loud and clear.

There are not very many shops here, the market is in decline, you will lose some of the markets that people enjoy browsing around.

You are not interested any more in Accrington as a market or retail outlet town. Go elsewhere.