Traders in Burnham-On-Sea have this week called on the organisers of the town’s monthly farmers markets to consider moving them.
At a meeting of Burnham’s Chamber Of Trade on Monday evening (February 28th), several shop owners raised concerns about the “traffic chaos” which it is claimed the monthly markets create on the last Friday of every month.
The comments came during a visit by Philip Wookey, the manager of Burnham’s farmers market.
Dennis Preedy of DP Menswear said: “I am a supporter of farmers markets, but the current location right in the centre of Burnham High Street is wrong. It causes chaos for motorists and puts off many shoppers from visiting altogether.”
“My trade always takes a big decline on market day because customers find it so difficult to park nearby. I am not alone – several other shops around the junction of Cross Street are also hurt on market day.”
Moving the market to either Victoria Street, one of the town’s car parks, or further along the High Street, has been put forward as alternatives.
Another trader, Geoff Shickle, said: “I am a firm backer of the market, but think it would be better situated further along the High Street towards the junction with Abingdon Street. There would be more room for it to expand with extra stalls and the car park facilities would be closer, encouraging more people to visit on market day.”
Farmers Market Manager Philip Wookey said: “We are very keen to work with the traders and are open to all suggestions.”
He also confirmed that while the market receives grant funding from the Town Council, it is still liable for business rates.
