TWO experienced market operators – one responsible for a well-established market in Guildford, the other for successful events in Winchester, Alton and further afield – have submitted bids to run a regular market in Farnham, the Herald understands.

The closure of West Street for a new weekly market, first proposed by Rowledge architect Mark Westcott, was endorsed by Surrey County Council leader Tim Oliver as a “quick win” in the town’s efforts to reduce traffic in the town centre at the Farnham Pollution Summit, co-hosted by the Herald and MP Jeremy Hunt, in October.

And with Waverley and Surrey councils both committing to present plans for cutting pollution in The Borough by the end of January at that same summit – Farnham Town Council, led by Farnham Residents’ councillor John Neale, has also grasped the nettle, and is set to discuss plans for a new market at tonight’s (Thursday’s) full council meeting.

The Herald understands Paul Lewis, co-owner of Southern Market Traders, has already presented market plans to the town council in recent weeks – with another bid coming from an unspecified Guildford-based operator.

Council papers released ahead of tonight’s meeting confirm “two ‘antiques/brocante/arts and craft’ market proposals” have been submitted – with Farnham’s tourism and events working group expressing concern about “the impact and style of market”, but adding discussions were “positive” overall.

Councillors are yet to settle on “the frequency of the market”, but agreed “there should be an experiment first”. A “more detailed report” is set to be presented at the group’s next meeting.

The Herald understands it was hoped the first market would be held in February – but this date has since been moved back to allow time to consult with retailers, the authorities and other affected parties and stakeholders.

However, Cllr Neale confirmed the council’s ambition is to facilitate a midweek “general” market, as well as “specialist” markets, for instance focussing on antiques, arts and crafts, at weekends – building on the town’s successful monthly food markets, Christmas market and food festival.

“But before we do it,” he added, “we’ve got to speak to the retailers, and make sure that what we do in the street doesn’t conflict with what they’re trying to do as retailers. We’re very sensitive about making sure whatever we do works for everybody.”

Cllr Neale added the market will come at no extra cost to taxpayers.