Market Trials in Blackman’s Yard Get Off to a Strong Start

The Town Council’s latest street market trial held last Friday [20th March] attracted a healthy number of shoppers, with a wide range of traders taking part.

The positive early response from stallholders helped ensure a lively atmosphere throughout the morning, with visitors enjoying a diverse selection of goods. Products on sale included confectionery and sweet treats, handmade bird houses and bee hotels, skincare and make-up products, falafel, crafts, personalised gifts, home decor items, handcrafted jewellery, as well as fossils and gemstones.

The trial markets are being held on selected Fridays at Blackman’s Yard, located behind the Town Council offices in Market Street. Further dates have been scheduled throughout the spring: 10 April, 24 April, 8 May and 22 May. Over the ten-week trial period, residents will have regular opportunities to browse a range of locally produced goods while supporting independent traders.

The programme has been arranged to help the Town Council evaluate whether Blackman’s Yard could serve as a long-term location for the town’s market, while also assessing the impact of holding the market on Fridays. The current trial follows an earlier programme which concluded in October, when visitor numbers, trader feedback and community engagement were reviewed.

Previously held on Saturdays at Vicarage Field, the market relocated to Blackman’s Yard last summer. As a Council-owned venue, the site offers greater flexibility for stallholders and fewer operational restrictions, allowing a broader range of products to be offered.

Corporate Services Manager, Karen Giddings said: “We’re delighted with the level of trader interest in the trials so far and delighted to have seen so many people attending the market last Friday. It was a very positive start and created a fantastic atmosphere in Blackman’s Yard. We encourage residents to make a note of the next market on Friday 10 April and come along to browse the stalls and support our independent traders.”

“The previous trial gave us valuable insight into how Blackman’s Yard works as a market space. This current phase will build on that experience, allow us to gather further feedback and help guide decisions about the future of the market.”