Council clarifies decision over market traders

23 April 2026

West Northamptonshire Council has moved to give residents greater clarity on the decision to end the occupancy of two food traders in Northampton’s Market Square.

The Council took the decision as it moves forward with plans to address instances of anti-social behaviour within the square and as part of an overall review of the offer of stalls as it looks to make improvements.

The notice period given to the traders was in line with the contract and support has been offered to those affected, including advice and signposting to business support.

WNC is working hard to bring new energy to the market as part of its ongoing commitment to creating a safer, more welcoming and successful town centre for residents, visitors and businesses.

Plans to grow and strengthen the market are already underway, with a clear focus on improving both the quality of the offer to create a balanced and attractive mix of stalls. A campaign is in progress to attract new, quality traders and the Council has received encouraging early interest.

To further support traders day to day, a new Market Square team is being recruited to strengthen on the ground support, ensure a consistent presence and provide a clearer point of contact. Promotion will also be strengthened, including new campaigns, an improved web presence and digital activity co produced with traders.

Alongside this, work is progressing on a refreshed events programme for 2026/27, bringing new and unique family friendly attractions to the area, with further announcements planned for the summer and Christmas periods in the coming weeks. 
Proposals are also being developed in response to trader feedback to relocate stalls to a new, more permanent location at the lower end of the Square, reducing disruption during events. 

WNC will also soon be consulting with residents and visitors to understand what they would most like to see on the Market Square, ensuring future decisions reflect local demand while encouraging increased footfall.

“A busier, more active Market Square is central to our wider approach to encouraging positive use of public spaces and reducing antisocial behaviour in the town centre.

“A successful market is about more than trading alone – it’s about creating a place where people feel safe and welcome and the feedback I have directly received is people don’t think this is the case.

“By growing the market, attracting a more diverse range of good quality traders and hosting more events, we are helping to boost footfall, support traders and promote positive, family friendly activity on the Square.”Cllr James Petter, Cabinet Member for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure at West Northamptonshire Council