Joyce defends under-threat markets

With the future of four historic Pembrokeshire markets under review, Joyce Watson AM warns that closure would damage town centres.
Pembrokeshire council is reviewing the future of markets in Haverfordwest, Fishguard, Pembroke Dock and Tenby. An initial report by the council’s director of development concluded that the markets are “not profitable, when taking into account whole costs of management and future capital requirements”. A further report will be presented to cabinet next month.
In a letter to Pembrokeshire chief Bryn Parry-Jones, Mrs Watson, who lives in Haverfordwest, asks whether the council has “undertaken an evaluation of the effect that each proposal would have on the future viability of each town centre.”
“The historic markets in Haverfordwest, Fishguard, Pembroke Dock and Tenby are important to the success of those towns,” and “the council has a responsibility to secure the long-term future of these markets,” she argues.
Here is the letter:
Mr Bryn Parry-Jones
Chief Executive, Pembrokeshire County Council
County Hall
HAVERFORDWEST
SA61 1TP
16 January 2014
Dear Bryn
I have received several concerns from constituents following proposals by Pembrokeshire County Council to end funding for four town centre markets across the county.
The historic markets in Haverfordwest, Fishguard, Pembroke Dock and Tenby are important to the success of those towns. If these markets were to close, it would have a significant impact on other retailers and the viability of each town centre. My constituents strongly believe that the county council has a responsibility to secure the long-term future of these markets.
Has the county council undertaken an evaluation of the effect that each proposal would have on the future viability of each town centre?
I look forward to your response.
Yours sincerely,
Joyce Watson AM/AC
For more information about Joyce Watson’s work contact her office on 02920 898972 / www.joycewatson.co.uk.