Plans are under way to transform Mansfield Market.

The project, which should be fully implemented by April, will include:

Purchasing new stalls, canopies, signage and trader name boards.
Improving signage and interpretation in and around the Market Place.
Encouraging new business to the market.
Creating incubation space for new and first-time traders.
Using the Market Place for themed and seasonal events.
Locating all stalls to the Market Place.
A new pricing structure for pitches.
Introducing branded workwear and name badges for traders.
Dedicated promotions to attract shoppers,

Coun Stewart Rickersey, portfolio holder for corporate services, made a delegated decision to spend £100,000 of the mayor’s economic stimulus funding on the project.

The decision was based on recommendations made by Martyn Thurman, head of neighbourhood services, for improving the long-term sustainability of the market.

Coun Rickersey, who has taken a strong stance on the market transformation project, said: “Doing nothing is not an option,
neither is doing more of the same.

“We want to put Mansfield Market back at the heart of the town centre and bring more traders and customers to the Market Place.”

The report was devised following a second phase of research comparing Mansfield with 29 market towns across the UK.

The research showed product gaps that the transformation project will look to fill by encouraging new stallholders and product lines through a business incubation scheme, where 20 cost-free stalls will be available for new and first-time traders for 12 months.

New stalls will be dressed with canopies and stallholders will also be issued with free branded workwear and name badges. Traders will also have access to promotional posters on a daily basis from the market team.

The council said the aim was to increase trade, encourage more shoppers and provide a bustling atmosphere in the town centre.

There will be a programme of themed events, specialist markets and a year-long programme of entertainment.

Coun Rickersey said: “We are on the lookout for local talent to come and perform at Mansfield Market now at no cost.”

Enquiries should be made to the market supervisor on 01623 463818 or email [email protected]

Coun Rickersey added: “From April the price of stalls will increase, but traders will be able to stand on Mansfield Market from as little as £6 per day.

“The most any trader will pay is £26 per stall per day for a premium location. We think this demonstrates good value for money. Market fees and charges have not been increased for a decade.”

“We want our customers to have a positive experience when they shop at Mansfield Market, from the quality and variety of products to the ambience of the Market Place.”