We must defend our market says Grantham councillor

Further to a recent meeting of the new SKDC group ASK I have opted to remain a Grantham Independent Councillor Unaligned.

Coun Charmaine Morgan said: “I do not support a recent call by one of the ASK Market Deepings Councillors to consider drawing a halt to Grantham’s historic market because it is currently running at a loss. 

“The residents of Grantham, our District’s largest town, contribute  significantly in council tax to SKDC’s budget and our heritage and services, where possible, should be retained. We do not yet have a Town Council to speak out. 

“Since the middle ages our market has been as the heart of our Town. It has been a difficult period for all retailers whether on the High Street or in our market place. The future of our market should not be judged in the current climate. The market provides a relatively low cost means of trading for new businesses and those seeking to reduce costs. It attracts visitors to our town. 

 “A more holistic solution is needed. For many years I have called upon sk to reduce parking charges at the weekend to help our town centre and market. Such consideration is given to Bourne. I support recent SKDC initiatives to draw people to the market.”

The Grantham St Vincents Ward representative continued: “Councils are not businesses.

“We are here to protect and provide public services acting on behalf of our communities. This may mean subsidising valued services at times. Our market is a part of our heritage and worth saving. 

“In the case of all of the services and businesses we value we need to use them. More are likely to come under further financial pressure and scrutiny in the coming months.”