Minutes:
The Committee considered a report which provided an update on a number of operational and enforcement issues relating to St. George’s Market, as well as details of an application for the grant of a Markets Licence.
The Director of Economic Development explained that St. George’s Market was a popular tourist attraction and space for local residents, as well as being an ideal location for new business starts and providing a source of income for more than 200 traders. He reminded the Committee that, in 2014, it had commissioned consultants to undertake work around a development plan for the market, which had resulted in changes to staffing structures and some operating hours. Officers were currently examining ways in which the market could be enhanced to meet increasing tourist demand, whilst retaining an important role as an asset for the City, its residents and the businesses which operated within it. It was proposed that consultants again be commissioned to develop a Strategic Development Plan for the market.
He reminded the Committee further that, at its meeting on 3rd April, it had been advised of a number of ongoing areas of work which would be progressed over the coming year and that it would be informed of any proposals which would impact significantly upon the market.
Accordingly, he highlighted the deployment of new mobile ventilation units, with a view to minimising odours and vapour from the cooking of hot food, as well as the increased focus on ensuring compliance with various guidance documents and enforcement policies. The Council’s Food Safety Team had made a number of recommendations around the storage of food before and between market days and those would be implemented in the coming weeks. Given the operational implications of those changes, the Markets team would be working closely with other agencies and with traders around, for example, the loading/unloading of food. All changes would be made in line with legislative requirements in order to protect and maintain the reputation of the market as a food destination and unique visitor experience.
He reminded the Committee that anyone wishing to operate a market or car boot sale was required to apply to the Council for a Markets licence. He reported that an application had been received from the Cathedral Quarter Trust to hold a market within St. Anne’s Cathedral and the adjoining car park, on Friday, 20th and Saturday, 21st June, as part of Culture Night Belfast. He pointed out that the market would, in line with the aims of the Council’s Markets Development Strategy, assist in enhancing the area and would drive footfall into the Cathedral Quarter and the surrounding area.
It was envisaged that there would be up to sixty stalls and operators would be required to submit in advance documentation such as public liability insurance and risk assessments. An operational plan covering, for example, security and stewarding, first aid provision and environmental health information would also be required. Inspections would also be undertaken over the course of the two days, in line with the Markets Rights Policy guidelines.
After discussion, the Committee approved the priority areas of investment in St. George’s Market over the coming year, approved the application from the Cathedral Quarter Trust for a Markets Licence and agreed that the Strategic Policy and Resources Committee be recommended to request a report on the use of consultants across the Council.