‘Strong support’ for Stockton market to move to north end of High Street

Stockton Council has been working with traders to find a new site for the “Queen of the North” market that is suitable for all concerned, with it now set to be located in the area which is close to the High Street’s future retail offering.

The authority says this means the market will benefit from shoppers’ footfall in light of key future developments in the town centre, including the demolition of the Castlegate shopping centre, the Swallow Hotel and the consolidation of retail into Wellington Square and the north section of the High Street.

Of the respondents in the consultation, 45 per cent chose the most suitable future location for Stockton Market as being between the Shambles and the Town Hall towards the north of the High Street in the northern events space.

Of the market traders, 92 per cent took part in the consultation, with 73 per cent of these voting for this location as their preferred choice.

A three-week consultation began in May, with the chance to identify the most suitable location on the High Street.

One person who commented on the consultation said: “Stalls should be easy to find rather than dotted about in a few different locations.”

A business owner said: “As a local business I benefit from the market presence.

“Any option to move away from the Shambles would negatively affect my business.”

Nigel Cooke, the council’s cabinet member for regeneration and housing, said: “The consultation shows there is strong support for the market to be located near to the town’s future retail space and we’re going to start that process now to determine the best individual location for traders.”

He added: “We’ve listened to trader feedback and will be commencing the relocation in the early part of next year to ensure minimal disruption to them with the upcoming events programme.”

It is proposed that the market move will start in January 2022.