SHOPKEEPERS in Clacton hope to launch a new weekly market in a bid to boost trade.

There are hopes a new permanent market could be held every Saturday in High Street.

Clacton Town Partnership’s Darren Bradwell, who runs a cafe in High Street, said the market could attract up to 50 stalls every week.

The market could be up and running by Christmas.

“We have had three fantastic markets already – at Christmas and just before the summer.

“But the council said we couldn’t run any more than four because it’s then a regular event and needs licensing.

“But we are now pushing for the councillors to get this going as a regular event.

“I know 35 sellers who will come – and we’re hoping for up to 40 or 50 regularly.

“It will be a massive boost to the town.

“A few traders aren’t happy that it will bring competition, but the extra footfall in the town will be a huge benefit – and it will encourage people to return to the town.

“It’s all about promoting Clacton.”

The town’s popular twiceweekly market closed after the former Warwick Castle site was redeveloped by discount supermarket Aldi.

Clacton now only attracts a handful of market stalls to the NCP car park in Jackson Road on Tuesdays.