Markets in Allerdale are currently run by Geraud Markets UK and are held in Workington, Keswick, Silloth and Wigton.

The change, which comes into effect from June 1 when Geraud’s contract comes to an end, will allow the Council to increase its income, while not changing the market fee structure for traders, as well as giving it the flexibility to try new market formats to meet the needs of business, residents and visitors.  

Cllr Mike Johnson, the Council’s Deputy Leader, said:

“Our markets in Workington, Keswick, Silloth and Wigton provide good business platforms for traders as well as being valued by residents and visitors.  

“Bringing the management of the service in-house we hope to build on and improve the markets we currently offer, which we hope will be supported by the traders and customers.  

“I would like to place on record the Council’s thanks to Geraud who have successfully operated the markets contract over many years.”  

Council staff have been talking to as many traders as possible at markets to explain the change and answer any questions. A dedicated markets manager will be appointed to work with traders on a day-to-day basis to make sure they continue to receive excellent service to support their businesses.

The move comes following a decision by the authority’s Executive at a meeting on 15 January 2020.

Yesterday (February 6, 2020), the Council’s Overview and Scrutiny Committee considered a call-in from councillors regarding the Executive’s decision about market provision. Having heard from officers and Executive members, the committee agreed that the original Executive decision should stand and no further action is required.