Review of Hailsham Street Market Progressing Well

A review of Hailsham Street Market is progressing well, with new stallholders confirming that they will trade in the near future.

The street market, which is organised by the Hailsham Forward Partnership and operates weekly on Saturdays in Vicarage Field, received additional funding support from the Town Council in February. From this funding, an independent consultant has been commissioned to carry out an in-depth review of the performance of the market in the future and take into consideration appropriate proposals for improvement or change.

The review has so far involved a detailed assessment of the market, including consultations with market traders and since its start, a number of new market traders have confirmed attendance at future markets, including those selling women’s clothes and accessories, children’s clothes and accessories and locally sourced cheeses.

Delighted that the review is proceeding to plan and additional market traders have been sourced already, Deputy Town Clerk & Business Enterprise Manager Mickey Caira said: “The acquisition of new stallholders is just one of the many benefits the street market review will provide in the future.”

“Hailsham Street Market has suffered from a decline in trading activity over recent months, as has been the case for many street markets across the south east and indeed nationally as a whole. Whilst Hailsham has seen some growth in terms of the number of new shops and other businesses opening here, the market has not shared in this growth.”

“The aim of review currently being carried out is to engage with market traders and seek their views on a range of options and proposals for improving the street market by sourcing new traders and increasing the range of products on offer to encourage more shoppers, including those from neighbouring towns and villages.”

“The Town Council and Hailsham Forward will listen to what the market traders say and act accordingly to help create a more vibrant street market that will rival some of the county’s best.”

Hailsham Street Market organisers would like to hear from anyone interested in becoming a stallholder/trader. Whether you are an experienced trader or a first-time market trader, why not give Hailsham Street Market a try?

Traditional market goods as well as new and unusual lines are needed and organisers and, as an incentive, new traders will be able to set up pitch and trade at the market free of charge at the first two markets attended.

For further information or to book a stall please call 01323 841702 or email enquiries@hailsham-tc.gov.uk.