Wellingborough's market re-opening with offer of a rent-free period

Wellingborough’s outdoor market is open again for business with an offer of a three-month rent-free period.

The offer is open to both existing and new traders at the market, located in Orient Way and the Market Square, along with town centre retailers who may be finding it difficult to comply with the Covid-19 guidance for safe trading in their existing location.

The general market is held every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday with a bric-a-brac market every Tuesday.

Stallholders will be following the current Covid-19 secure guidelines to protect shoppers and workers.

Wellingborough Council is also supporting traders wanting to serve food and drink outside their premises.

It comes after the Government recently announced new legislation to enable local councils to grant a ‘Pavement Licence’ to outlets, who will be able to place removable furniture adjacent to their premises so they can serve food and drinks to their customers, who may prefer to sit outside.

Wellingborough Council made a decision at its recent council meeting not to levy a charge for the licence to encourage and support local businesses to operate safely while social

distancing measures remain in place.

Council leader Martin Griffiths said: "In the current circumstances it is likely that many shoppers feel safer and happier buying their goods in the open we are delighted be able to offer a free rent period for our market stallholders and for others who may wish to take a stall in the current climate, the introduction of pavement licences is an opportunity for local business to benefit from this new legislation and I am very pleased that as a council the decision was made to waive the proposed fee of £100 here in Wellingborough.

“I really hope that market traders, shoppers, visitors to our town and the hospitality sector make the most of these opportunities in the weeks and months ahead, but at the same time everyone adheres to the law and follows all up to date guidance at all times”.

The 2020 Act sets out two conditions that must be adhered to, that there should be no-obstruction and a smoke-free seating area.

Applications must be made via the central licensing administration unit via http://www.northantslicensing.gov.uk/

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