Council look to replace Idlewells indoor market in Sutton-in-Ashfield

Ashfield District Council met on Thursday (9th July) to look at the future of the current indoor market at the Idlewells Shopping Centre.

The cabinet looked at whether the market’s future would be best served by repairing and upgrading the current premises or moving it alltogether to a purpose-built hall at Fox Street.

This comes after a review of the Idlewells market revealed that traders feel “constrained” by the environment they trade in.

Deputy council leader, Don Davis, said both options had potential to provide a solid base for the market to attract new traders and customers.

He said: “The existing market traders in Sutton are loyal and offer customers a good product mix... Their comments in a recent scrutiny review revealed a wish to continue trading in Sutton and their desire to see a new build premises for the market.”

“The options to be explored represent the only two realistic developments which will bring new trade and custom to the market in the future.”

The Idlewells market would need to close for 26 weeks for the work to be completed, which the council say could be difficult.

But although this would not happen if they built a new hall, they are concerned that this option might “alienate regular customers who shop at the Idlewells centre.”

Coun Davis added: “There are benefits and risks involved with both these schemes, which is why we are exploring both in detail, and continuing to consult directly with the market traders.”

The council say they will keep people informed.