Troon becomes a market town
Go ahead for first street extravaganza
Outdoor stalls are set to transform Troon into a market town.
Between 12 and 20 sellers will set up for the very first Troon Street Market next month.
It is a key plank of the campaign by Troon shop owners to pack the streets with people.
Stallholders will bring a wide variety of foods, drinks, crafts and possibly plants to tempt buyers.
They will sit on a grass strip in the shadow of Troon Town Hall and continue round the side of the Concert Hall.
Organisers say there is plenty more room on the shore side of the hall if it outgrows that.
The ambitious aim of Troon Business Association is to draw people from far and wide to the town on the last Saturday of every month.
A key aim is to help draw summer visitors off the beach and into the town for shopping.
Trade worries from at least two retailers in Ayr Street - who were set to protest against it - have been eased in the meantime.
Donna Read of the TBA said: “Visitors now expect more and they want more and we need to bring this here.
“It has already been proven that when events come to Troon, everyone gets a spin- off.
“I think this market will be a boost to the whole local economy... it will bring people to town and increase footfall to the shops who obviously pay rent and rates..
“The goods will all be direct from the producer, not things that have been bought to be re- sold.
“Most will be from Ayrshire and Glasgow but hopefully also from Arran as we try and expand our links with the island.
“At least two bakers are coming with speciality breads.
“This won’t be everyday foods, but those for a treat. And it should be a great day out for everybody.”
Donna added: “I keen saying it, if you want something to happen in Troon you have to go out and find it.
The TBA is using an established market company – which already hosts events at Culzean, Dumfries House and Ballantrae - to put on the show.
South Ayrshire Council has agreed to let them use the ground for just £ 100 a year.
The first will be held on Saturday March 25 from 11am till 4pm and it is likely to feature different stalls on different months.
Visitors will be given a leaflet featuring a map of the town centre and highlighting TBA member shops.
Councillor Peter Convery has worked behind the scenes to assist the TBA.
He said: “I am very excited about the potential of Troon becoming known as a great town for a market.
“It should provide the catalyst for growing the retail experience and bringing a lot of people here.
“Looking ahead with the possibility of the Arran ferry, I can also see islanders coming over specifically to attend.
“All of the shops, pubs, restaurants and cafes would see the benefit from a vibrant street market.
“It’s a very common sight within many towns in Britain that has brought economic uplift and vitality back for so many of them.”
The goods will be direct from the producer not things that have been bought to be resold