Long-term future of Frankton Market discussed

Hamilton City Council will undertake a full consultation process to determine the long-term future of the Frankton Market.

The market, a fixture of the Hamilton suburb for more than 15 years, has traditionally been held on Saturday mornings. The market takes place on Commerce Street, Frankton’s main retail boulevard, and requires a full road closure.

However, major retailer Forlongs has voiced concern about the impact of the weekly market on its trade, and this week the company’s representatives met with Mayor Julie Hardaker and Council’s City Infrastructure General Manager Chris Allen to discuss the situation.

Forlongs has suggested the market be moved to a Sunday morning, when it is not open for business.

Mr Allen says: “Forlongs have told us they are a strong supporter of the market but they also see significant benefits to the retailers and the wider community in shifting to a Sunday.”

With numerous views on the future of the market, Mr Allen says Council has agreed with Forlongs to arrange for an independently facilitated meeting of key stakeholders to see if agreement can be reached on a long-term option for the market. Further public consultation will follow prior to Christmas.