Powys

Powys CC control eleven markets through various operating agreements but were seeking a clear strategy to ensure their continuing success. Markets were recognised as an important community resource and outlet for producers but a common framework was needed to deliver an efficient service through the three former shires making up this large rural county.

Quarterbridge undertook a major consultation exercise amongst the public, traders and other stakeholders to identify customer profiles, catchment, competition and demand. This was all combined with a financial review of the service to identify new revenue lines and partnerships incorporated into an improvement action plan. The plan addressed issues such as maintaining the historic listed buildings in which many markets are staged and the introduction of performance monitoring. Defining a clear set of policy objectives for the markets service and linking them into the Unitary Development Plan is an integral part of the process.