Following the cancellation of this month's Alderley Edge Farmer's Market, the organiser is looking into the possibility of holding future events in the village centre.
The monthly market was cancelled for the first time in 14 years on Sunday, 13th January, because Aldeli, where it has been held since April 2012, was informed that they need to apply for planning permission to continue to host the market at their premises.
As a result of this Christine Munro approached Cheshire East Council (CEC) to see if it would be possible to hold the farmer's market on the pavement in the village. There wasn't enough time to organise this ahead of January's market but Christine hopes permission can be obtained in time for the next market on February 10th.
The Parish Council discussed the potential move of the market at this week's meeting. However, this is not a decision for the Parish Council because it is outside their remit and up to the Highways Department at CEC to decide.
Christine told councillors "I have spoken to the shops from West Street down to the precinct and they are happy, because most of them are closed on Sunday, for the gazebos to go in front of their shops."
Cllr Joseph Bergin spoke in favour of a move.
He said "I have a preference for it not to be at Aldeli because I've got a concern about the health and safety because when they are unloading and loading there has been problems in the past with people's parking. I think it's dangerous and it would be a tragedy if someone got knocked down.
"So I have a preference to facilitate and assist if we can in moving it away, where that location is is a different debate but I have a preference to move it away from Aldeli."
Cllr Nigel Schofield agreed that they have got to find a place somewhere for the market but raised concerns about road safety.
He commented "If you have traders against the shops then a narrow pavement and people standing at the things you are getting close to the road way - I am just a little bit nervous about that."
Cllr Mike Williamson suggested that Christine Munro contacts the new owners of The Parade, Aberdeen City Council Pension Fund, about holding the market on the pavement there.
Cllr Mary Maczkowiak said "If we could get agreement from the people who own The Parade it would be ideal.
"I think it's a great idea. I agree with Joseph as to where it is at the moment. It isn't satisfactory to everybody, residents included. Another place would be ideal and the village is the ideal place for it."
When asked where her preference would be for the market, Christine responded "Personally from the traders point of view, and that's not just the traders that have stalls but the village traders, it is always best to have it in the village because the shops in the village get business, the cafes in the village get business and everyone's happy."
The Parish Council understands that Stephen Higham is waiting for a letter from CEC providing written confirmation of whether he needs to apply for planning permission or not. They agreed to chase the relevant officer at CEC to write to Stephen Higham confirming the situation regarding planning permission as soon as possible.
What do you think about moving the farmer's market? Would you like to see it located on the pavement in the village centre, at The Parade or for it to remain at Aldeli? Share your views via the comment box below.
Photo: Farmer's market came into the village centre in December 2011 for a one off Christmas event.
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