North Devon residents are being invited to have their say on measures to combat antisocial behaviour in Barnstaple Pannier Market.
North Devon Council, which owns and operates Barnstaple Pannier Market, is proposing a further Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) which would see the market closed overnight between 6pm and 7.30am.
The iconic covered market in the heart of Barnstaple town centre contains a public right of way through the centre of the building, which historically meant the whole market was permanently accessible at all hours, resulting in anti-social behaviour occurring in the market overnight.
A PSPO for the market was first introduced in 2018, and was last renewed on 31 January 2022. The order forbids a number of activities in the market. In order to ensure compliance with the terms of the order, provision was made for the public highway between Butchers Row and Market Street to be closed from 6pm until 5am the following day through the operation of barriers.
The further PSPO is proposed for a period of three years and includes a recommendation to extend the time the right of way through the market is closed. Under the proposal, the market will close at 6pm each night before reopening to the public at 7.30am the following day.
A consultation is now open for members of the public and stakeholders to voice their opinions on the proposal. The consultation closes at midday on Thursday, 9 January 2025. The PSPO would come into effect at the beginning of February.
Place Manager at North Devon Council, Hannah Harrington, said: "The PSPO for Barnstaple Pannier Market has been vital in reducing overnight antisocial behaviour in the town centre, as well as protecting the market from vandalism. We are proposing to further the order so the market reopens later each morning but would like people to share their views first.
"This consultation is a vital opportunity for residents, local businesses, and other stakeholders to have their say on the proposed measures to tackle antisocial behaviour and ensure the market and wider town centre continues to be a safe and welcoming space for everyone."
The consultation is available on our community consultations page. Paper copies are available from the pannier market office during opening hours (Tuesday - Saturday, 10am-4pm) up until 23 December 2024.