Changes could be afoot for Nuneaton and Bedworth's historic markets. Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council has launched a consultation into the future operation of the markets in both towns.

Now traders on both markets including Nuneaton’s , which dates back to the 12th century, are being asked for their views on the future of the two markets. Back in March of this year, the Town Hall denied rumours that its markets will be taken over by an outside company.

CoventryLive saw a letter sent to market traders in which it says that claims that the market is going to be 'outsourced' are not accurate. At the time rumours were circulating that the Town Hall is to follow in the footsteps of Rugby Borough Council, which has recently seen its market taken over by CJ Events.

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But now the Town Hall says falling trader numbers, pressures on local authority funding and rising operational costs means it has to review the future delivery of the markets, so that they can continue into the future.

Jonathan White, assistant director for the economy said: “We must ensure value for money and resilience, and provide opportunities for markets to thrive as town centres evolve in the face of the changing retail and town centres landscape."

Council leader, councillor Kris Wilson, added that no decisions have been made yet and that a questionnaire and drop in sessions are being used to get traders’ views, with results to be reported to cabinet members later this year.

In a statement, Council leader, Cllr Wilson, said:“We know that our markets are an important part of people’s shopping week, and our traders and the borough council team work hard to provide a good offer and service in both town centres.

"There’s no doubt these are challenging times. Markets and shopping habits have changed over the years, so we need to keep up with the best ideas that will work well here in Nuneaton and Bedworth.

"No decisions have been made yet and this is just the start, so I want to hear from as many traders as possible to help us move this forward. What is the best future for our markets in Nuneaton and Bedworth?”

Currently Nuneaton market operates on Wednesdays and Saturdays and Bedworth Market operates an indoor and outdoor market, with trading on Tuesday, Friday and Saturday.

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