Batley and Birstall’s markets saved in new deal

Batley and Birstall’s markets have been saved from closure after Kirklees Council have made a deal with a private operator.
Stall holders at Batley market. (D553E444)Stall holders at Batley market. (D553E444)
Stall holders at Batley market. (D553E444)

Peter McNulty-Senior will have a license to hold markets in both locations after the council’s control of the service ends on March 31.

The agreement lasts for 12 months, but this will be extended if the markets run successfully.

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Lead member for Investment and Housing Peter McBride said: “I’m pleased to say that we’ve found a solution which means that Batley and Birstall will continue to have a weekly market.

“As our residents are aware, the council has had to make tough decisions about where we continue to provide essential services.

“But as this shows, with a bit of creative thinking, where a council service has come to an end, this has in fact created a commercial opportunity for a local business, as well as securing the future for existing market traders who are keen to continue.”

Market days will remain the same, and existing stall holders can carry on with a price adjustment of less than 20p to weekly stall prices.

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Mr McNulty-Senior, who was already sub-contracted to put up and take down the markets before the deal was struck, has been in talks in the council since before Christmas.

The decision comes after a formal application and interview process.

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