Plans reviewed to sell off part of town market

A CONTROVERSIAL decision to sell off a share of Walsall market will be revisited next month following a concerted campaign by market traders.

Walsall Council's new leader, Councillor Mike Bird, has confirmed that the cabinet will meet in June to reconsider plans to sell off 50 per cent of the market's management to private investors, following a decline in profits.

Despite assurances from the council on holiday provision and that 30 stalls would not be lost, traders had expressed fears for their livelihoods with the potential loss of subsidies.

The Walsall market traders met on Tuesday to discuss the future of the outdoor market and the possibility that it could remain owned by the people of the town.

Karen Sands, chairman of the Walsall Market Traders Association, said: "Things are being re-looked at. We know there is not going to be a 50/50 deal.

"I am now more optimistic about the future of the market."

West Midlands MEP Mike Nattrass has backed the traders' initiative and welcomed the news that the potential sell-off is to be looked at again.

"The market, which dates back to 1220, belongs to the people of Walsall," he said. "The market should be run by the people of Walsall for the people of Walsall.

"The market is part of the rich heritage of the town. I truly hope the proposed sell-off does not happen and that Walsall market as a result goes from strength to strength."