Monthly market returns to town centre after year in car park

THORNBURY Market is returning to the South Gloucestershire town’s High Street after councillors granted permission.

Green Top Events’ street trading licence application for the fourth Saturday of every month until next February was approved by South Gloucestershire Council licensing sub-committee.

A nearby business objected saying it would harm local shops’ income, while one resident wrote in support. The artisan craft market was moved temporarily to St Mary Street car park a year ago while multi-millionpound work took place to partially pedestrianise the High Street and make it one way.

But it will now return to its former home from 10am-3pm from April 27.

Green Top Markets managing director Gareth Osullivan told the hearing: “We know the need for the market. We do support the small businesses. We know the increase in profitability they get from the market with the added footfall.”

South Gloucestershire Council senior licensing officer Emma Pain said: “The market has previously been held in the High Street with no complaints received by this licensing authority.”

A report to the sub-committee on Wednesday said: “Officers of the licensing service are aware of the road closure and possible use of disabled parking bays to accommodate market stalls.

“Alternative disabled parking bays are available in other council public car parks on St Mary Street, Castle Court and Rock Street, but it is acknowledged these do not give immediate access to the local shops, amenities or a market taking place in the High Street. Officers are also aware that dropped kerbs in the High Street were blocked by traders at the inaugural street market that took place on October 10, 2020.

“The market organiser (applicant) was made aware of these issues following that event, and this must be addressed by the applicant for the street trading consent as part of the event management plan to ensure access at all times for persons on the High Street.”