Labour leaves Sheffielders unsure over future viability of their market

12.00.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Wed 24th May 2006

Many Castle Market traders could go out of business

Sheffield market traders have failed to hammer out a deal with council chiefs over stall rents at Castle Market. The Council have failed to give any assurances over future levels of rent, instead committing to 'reviewing' rent levels later in the financial year.

Cllr David Baker, Liberal Democrat Shadow Cabinet member for Economic Regeneration, said

"Traders should never have been put in this unacceptable situation. Despite previous extensive negotiations they have had to attend the cabinet meeting and argue their case to try and put off future rent increases at the eleventh hour. Even now they have an uncertain future"

"By refusing to put their cards on the table the council are creating an unstable environment within the markets, with many traders not knowing if they will be able to afford future rent levels"

"The market traders have been subjected to empty promise after empty promise from this council over the last few years. This latest commitment to 'review' future rent increases seems like just another ploy to avoid putting forward their true position"

"Cabinets decision today still puts jobs at risk and leaves customers unsure about the future viability of their market"