Markets future in jeopardy

15 June 2001




Markets future in jeopardy

PRESTON Auction Marts future is in doubt following the local council committees recommendation to lift site covenants barring other use.

Despite the councils decision, Cumbria-based Kendal & District Auction Mart, which owns the market, remains committed to reopening it when markets are allowed to trade as normal following the foot-and-mouth crisis.

It was the auctioneer who applied for the restrictions to be lifted so that the under-used site could be redeveloped.

Ripe for redevelopment

Situated in the middle of a residential area, the 2.8ha (7 acre) venue is ripe for redevelopment, probably for homes or a supermarket. This has fuelled local speculation that its days are numbered. Residents are believed to be in favour of conversion.

Clifford Kendal, the companys managing director, would not be drawn on the marts future.

No plans for change of use have yet been made. &#42


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