THE thought of more town markets being set up across the county prove to be worrying for one area in Flintshire.

The issue was mentioned during a meeting of Holywell Town Council earlier this week.

Cllr Lynda Carter – who runs her own recycled school uniform stall whilst also helping on the town council’s information stall at Holywell’s weekly outdoor market – raised the issue.

She explained her concerns that Holywell market was being ‘forgotten’ as towns such as Buckley, Connah’s Quay and Flint have all allegedly expressed an interest in hosting a market of their own.

Cllr Carter said: “We’ve worked really hard to get the market back up and thriving again only for COVID to come along and see to that almost overnight.

“Traders are starting to return but definitely seems to be favouritism towards Mold over Holywell by the county council.

“We were not allowed to host any special events in the winter whilst Mold was. We were also told the same about the idea of a craft fair in Tower Gardens before this.

“I’ve heard there has been talks about expanding with new markets in other towns like Flint and Connah’s Quay. I’m worried we’ll just be forgotten if these do start setting up.”

Just before the first national lockdown in March 2020, Holywell hosted its biggest ever market day featuring 30 different stalls lining the entirety of the town’s main shopping street.

Levels have yet to matched due to the COVID-19 recovery of businesses – as well as the need to keep safety measures in place.

Branded as a market town, the group behind running the weekly market have been keen to keep it alive and thriving for the future.

After the meeting, held on Tuesday, the Leader approached Flintshire Council for an update on any plans to expand beyond the current offering of Mold and Holywell markets.

The council’s Chief Officer for Planning, Environment and Economy, Andrew Farrow, said: “Currently, there are no approved plans for the expansion of the markets service to other towns.

“Any expansion would involve full consultation with County Councillors, the Town Council and local businesses in each town.

“Consideration of the impacts of any proposed market on traffic would also be considered. There would then be a need for a Cabinet report for any changes to be approved.”

Holywell Market is held weekly on Thursday’s between 9am and 3pm in the High Street area.