THE Council has dropped increased rents for market traders after a farmers’ market was forced to close.
Last week the Guardian revealed that the monthly Essex Farmers’ market in George Lane, South Woodford had closed after rents were raised from £15 to £28 per trader.
Ian Chisholm, who runs the business, said the hike meant he would have to charge stallholders £60 to cover his costs, a figure which he said made it impossible to continue in South Woodford.
And he said Wanstead Farmers’ market would probably have to close in light of the increase.
But speaking to the Guardian today, Cllr Shoaib Patel, the council’s cabinet member for community safety, planning and enforcement, said: “I have received some feedback from businesses in reaction to the rise.
“After listening to what traders have to say, and recognising that these are still difficult economic times, I have decided to suspend any increase in fees until further notice.
“I would like to take this opportunity to remind people that we have also waived the licensing fees for tables and chairs on the pavement during the Olympic and Paralympic Games.”
More to follow.
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