Quality Future for Town Centre Markets (08/02/06)

South Bedfordshire District Councils Executive Committee has decided to undertake a formal tendering process for the management of the markets in Leighton Buzzard and Dunstable. Executive Councillors agreed on this decision as the best way of ensuring the markets receive the investment and management needed to maintain them to a high standard, and to introduce improvements for customers and traders.

The Town Councils will also be invited to submit final offers that will be considered alongside private bids. The formal tendering process will begin shortly but whatever the outcome, the future of current employees will be safeguarded.

Cllr McVicar portfolio holder for town centres and markets said: "The South Bedfordshire street markets are a valued and attractive part of the economic vitality and viability of the two town centres.

"We intend to ensure that the communities and traders of Leighton Buzzard and Dunstable have a quality market for years to come. The final decision will be based on quality and sound management. Well run markets will increase footfall in our town centres and that will be of great benefit to our entire community."