Stourbridge firm won't give up on open-air market plan

It was hoped a weekly Thursday market could have launched from April but LSD Promotions, which has put the proposals forward, appears to be no closer to getting the go-ahead.

The arrival of the market would see High Street and Market Street closed to traffic each week and the proposals have been met with mixed views.

Opposition from some traders and uncertainty over the leadership of Dudley Council meant the proposals were put on hold.

Michael Morgan, from LSD, said he was hopeful now the Labour group has been confirmed as remaining in control they will be back on the agenda.

However, he was unable to say when the market could be up and running, saying it was a 'waiting game'.

Mr Morgan added: "After the local elections, nobody was left in overall control so it was put back with everything else that was going on. Now we can get in rolling again. There has been a high-profile campaign for it from local MPs."

Stourbridge councillor Nicholas Barlow said concerns from the Stourbridge Chamber of Trade has also had an impact.

Some traders have claimed holding a market on a Thursday could have a damaging effect on the high street but the idea has been largely welcomed by members of the public.

And Councillor Barlow said: "I know it went to consultation with the chamber of trade and there were some concerns about the proposed siting within the High Street.

"Unfortunately, it's still up air. We want to make sure the balance is right and there is not an effect on established businesses."

But Councillor Barlow said he was confident the market would still go ahead.

He said: "It is certainly something that is welcomed by people who come into Stourbridge. They would like to see a market back on a regular basis.

"Discussions are still going on behind the scenes and we have to make sure it is right for the whole of Stourbridge."

The possibility of holding the market on Saturdays was floated by some traders and the town's MP Margot James said she would be in favour of a Saturday market.

But LSD Promotions said it is not willing to budge on its plans.

A trial period which ran until December had been suggested by the company before a decision was made on whether to make it a permanent fixture.