IPSWICH MP Chris Mole, today called for Ipswich market to move to the bottom of Lloyd's Avenue.And he pledged to press the government to untie the red tape which the borough council claims prevents the market from moving.
By Paul Geater
IPSWICH MP Chris Mole, today called for Ipswich market to move to the bottom of Lloyd's Avenue.
And he pledged to press the government to untie the red tape which the borough council claims prevents the market from moving.
"It's clear that something needs to be done urgently if Ipswich market is to survive, and I've thought for some time that the bottom of Lloyd's Avenue would be the obvious place for it," he said.
"I see that the council says there are problems with moving a market to the highway – but there must be a way around this.
"I can speak to transport ministers to see if there's a solution – I can't believe it's an impossible situation."
Mr Mole felt the bottom of Lloyd's Avenue was a more realistic site for the market than the Cornhill because there would be more space for the stalls.
And it would link in well with the craft market on the Cornhill on Fridays and Saturdays.
"We really do need to get something sorted out quickly on this," he added.
Mr Mole's suggestion was welcomed by Michael Young, chairman of the co-operative of traders which currently runs the market.
"We have suggested Lloyd's Avenue, although the space available isn't big enough for everyone who would want to use the market," he said.
"But if there was a bit of an overspill on to the Cornhill, that would be a very good solution," he said.
Mr Young said the mood on the market had changed over the last few days.
"Until this week there has been a feeling of resignation, but with the launch of the Star campaign everyone is feeling angry about the situation and prepared to fight for what we need.
"We're determined to keep the market in town – but to do that we do need a better site," Mr Young said.
n The Evening Star has launched its Save Our Market campaign. If you have views on the town retaining a market which first began in the town 800 years ago, why not write, fax or e-mail us. Write to: Your Letters, The Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN. Fax 01473 225296 or e-mail: EveningStarLetters@ecng.co.uk
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