Rescue plan for West Bromwich Indoor Market

Council bosses are looking at what investment options are available for the market, where the number of traders has dwindled in recent years. The authority says it is no longer fit for purpose and that major changes are needed if it is to survive long-term.

Councillors are poised to approve an extension of a 25 per cent rate reduction offer to support desperate traders, who have called on the authority to ensure the survival of the market. A new report said proposals for the future of the market were likely to be set out in April.

Changes in shopping habits have been partly blamed on the market's continual decline over recent years. Council chiefs must decide whether the market is worth investing in heavily at a time when it is struggling.

West Bromwich councillor Bawa Dhallu said he was confident the indoor market has a viable future in the town.

He said: "We are looking at spending some money and putting it right. We are looking at investing some money and making it look better so we can attract more stallholders.

"It will make the difference and then we can look forward to more shoppers coming into West Bromwich."

The report said: "The indoor market is currently trading profitably but has lost traders in recent years and this rate of loss has accelerated in the last two years.

"There are many factors that have contributed to the decline in trader numbers including changes in shopping habits, new retail developments close to the market and a facility that has had little investment in the physical infrastructure, so the market is somewhat dated.

"Market traders have petitioned the council and their local MP for financial assistance to assist their businesses survive within the current difficult trading conditions.

"The council commissioned a strategic review of the indoor market which concluded that the existing facility is no longer fit for purpose and that a business case should be explored to investigate potential investment options and partners to help redevelop the market and recover its commercial viability. The outcome of this investigation will be reported to cabinet in April 2019."