BIG changes could be coming to Street Market after running of the sale was taken over.

Street Parish Council has taken over the market, which runs each Thursday, and has plans to get residents more involved in the event.

The move comes as Somerset Council looks to offload responsibilities – including the running of town markets – to parish and town councils, like Street, under an ‘asset and service devolution process’.

The market in Street is not covered by a historic Market Charter, like others in the county, but the parish council has invoked its market rights under Part III of the Food Act 1984. The authority officially took over running of the weekly sale on April 1, having committed to it last year, including paying operational and running costs.

Now, two dedicated market officers – Matt Whiting and Craig Jackson – have been employed to oversee weekly operations and help develop the event into a “thriving, sustainable service for Street”.

Chair of Street Parish Council, Bryan Knickerbocker, with market officers Matt Whiting and Craig Jackson

Officers are now working alongside NABMA (the National Association of British Market Authorities) and traders to “assess the current offer and shape a strategic vision for the Market’s future”.

A formal review of the market service will be carried out after six months, with the intention of developing a long-term strategy to grow the event.

“With this new model of management and delivery, Street Parish Council is committed to preserving the High Street as a vibrant space for traders, residents, and visitors,” a spokesperson said.

“The council aims to grow the market offering and implement improvements that benefit the entire community.”

READ MORE: News from Glastonbury and Street from your Somerset Leveller 

Street Parish Council pointed to key Points of the new arrangement for the market:

• Enhanced Local Control: The devolution process gives Street Parish Council the ability to make decisions that reflect the specific needs and character of Street.
• Improved Vendor Support: New initiatives will be introduced to support market traders and ensure strong communication.
• Community Engagement: Residents and local businesses will be invited to contribute ideas and feedback to shape the future of the market and help it serve as a showcase for the High Street.

Chair of Street Parish Council, Bryan Knickerbocker, said: “We are excited to take on the management of Street Market. This is a fantastic opportunity to enhance a market that is part of our High Street’s identity and ensure it thrives for many years to come.

“We look forward to working closely with traders and residents to make Street Market even better in the days ahead.”