Vibrant Market Scene in Hailsham Returns to Blackman’s Yard

Hailsham Town Council’s ongoing street market pilot continues to gather momentum, with today’s event [Friday 8 May] attracting a healthy turnout and showcasing a diverse selection of independent traders.

Building on the positive response from earlier markets in March and April, the latest event saw strong participation from stallholders, contributing to a lively and inviting atmosphere throughout the morning. Shoppers had the chance to explore a wide range of products, from handcrafted goods and artisan foods to skincare, home accessories, jewellery and personalised gifts. Additional offerings, including beef biltong and 3D-printed gaming figures, added to the market’s distinctive appeal.

The trial series is being held on selected Fridays at Blackman’s Yard, located behind the Town Council offices on Market Street. The final event in this phase is set for Friday 22 May. The initiative is designed to provide residents with more opportunities to shop locally while supporting small, independent businesses.

This latest round of trials is part of a broader evaluation into the potential for Blackman’s Yard to become a permanent market venue, as well as assessing the feasibility of hosting markets on Fridays. It follows an earlier trial period that ended in October, during which footfall, trader experiences and community feedback were closely monitored.

Previously held on Saturdays at Vicarage Field, the market relocated to Blackman’s Yard last summer. The Council-owned site offers increased flexibility and fewer operational constraints, allowing traders to broaden their product range.

Karen Giddings, Corporate Services Manager, said the Council has been encouraged by the response: “We’re delighted with the level of engagement from both traders and visitors. The most recent market created a vibrant atmosphere at Blackman’s Yard, and we look forward to welcoming more residents to upcoming events in May.”

Councillor Anne Marie Ricketts, Chair of the Communities Committee, also welcomed the continued success: “It’s great to see the market attracting more people and offering such variety. Supporting local businesses is vital, and these trials are helping us understand how best to develop a sustainable and successful market for the town.”

Karen Giddings added that the current phase builds on earlier findings: “The previous trial gave us important insights into how the space works as a market location. This stage allows us to gather further feedback and refine our approach as we plan for the future.”