'It was full in its heyday': Why one of Leeds’ traditional markets is facing a make-or-break moment
‘Back in the heyday it was full’ - but this week many stalls in Pudsey market square were empty
A town’s market is no longer financially viable due to a decline in the number of customers and stallholders, the council has said.
A consultation will be launched on the future of Pudsey Market as views are sought on how to boost trade.
Leeds City Council said it wanted to make the market sustainable in the long term after being faced with rising costs and low stall rents.
Many stalls were empty in Pudsey’s market square this week.
Shan Ajaib, who runs the Simply Delish stall, said: “There are stallholders interested but when they see that no customers are coming they don’t think it’s worthwhile.
“On the opposite side you’ve got customers who come and have a look, don’t see a great deal on offer and don’t bother.”
Pudsey Conservative councillor Simon Seary urged people to have their say on the outdoor market’s long-term future.
He said: “It’s disappointing to see. This is a Tuesday market and we’ve probably got five or six stalls.
“Back in the heyday, it was full. But over time we have lost a number of stallholders.”
Leeds City Council said traders, ward councillors and market shoppers would be consulted during July.
A spokesperson said: “Pudsey Market, like many outdoor markets across the country, has seen a decline for several years in terms of traders and customers attending.
“Together with low stall rents and increasing operating costs, this means the market is not financially viable as it currently stands.”
Pudsey Market is currently open on Tuesday, Friday and Saturday.
Details of how to take part in the consultation were yet to be released.