SIR: The future of the Debenhams site has elicited many suggestions. Winchester Labour Party is now putting forward an idea that is already gathering significant support from recent canvassing. The whole of the ground floor and possibly extending upwards should become Winchester’s Indoor Covered Market.

It is an ideal location with pedestrian access from the High Street and especially close to the bus station. The Market Lane goods entrance would provide easy stall holder access with accessible trader’s parking in Colebrook Street car park. Attracting independent local traders providing variety and competition, it will support the local economy with farm and small holding produce. Indoor and warmer stall trading conditions could be available all year round, conserving fuel and providing a better carbon footprint. By contributing significantly to stimulating the local economy, it will create a very pleasant community focused market shopping centre destination. As well as garden produce, all types of other commodities, antiques, books, records, clothes, gifts, flowers and different food offers could be accommodated. Indoor markets are no competitive threat to established shops, indeed, all thrive through co-existence and different offers.

Evidence has shown that where covered markets exist, efficiently and effectively managed, there is always an increase in associated local footfall. Highly successful covered markets such as Leeds, Darlington, Oxford, Brixton, Bristol, Leicester, Norwich, Camden Lock in London all increased local shop trade.

Markets create the feel-good buzz of the street scene. They produce very good value for money as well as celebrating culture, identity, diversity and inclusivity. All have strong local attachments and people from diverse backgrounds meet, shop and exchange ideas. Markets are well designed public spaces that are serviced, safe and focused on developing economic and cultural life. Such public spaces as these play a vital part in the social and economic life of communities because people make places, not the other way round.

Peter Rees,

Member – Winchester Constituency Labour Party,

Monarch Way,

Winchester