MARKET traders in Chard say they would like to be part of consultations to potentially move to a new location at the earliest possible stage.

Some traders say that a proposed move back to the Lace Mill car park would result in them shutting up shop.

Chard Town Council received a report at a recent amenities committee meeting from the Saturday Market Working Group.

Cllr Jenny Kenton’s proposals to “improve the market and increase business to make Chard more vibrant and a place people want to come to” were all approved.

It was agreed that the council would seek to relocate the existing market to the Lace Mill car park, subject to receiving consent from the relevant authorities.

The council will canvas opinion from the market stallholders, traders and members of the public and will apply for a grant from South Somerset District Council’s Area West committee for the purchase of new stalls, publicity and advertising costs as well as street entertainment and a container for storage.

Tony Smith, speaking on behalf of the market traders, told The News: “We would object to such a move and six traders are resolved to quit if such a move was forced upon us.

“The market would be unviable and would offer poor access to customers.

“With regards to the provision of stalls, we have seen no reason as to why or for what benefit.

“Systems of this sort have been tried in other market towns and have proved unwelcome, unsustainable, expensive and a waste of public money.

“We welcome dialogue with the town council on all the matters to continue to improve.”