Positive moves over Farmers' Market future

4.39.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Fri 20th Jul 2007

Established in 1922, Caurnie is Scotland's oldest soapmaker

The future of Kirkintilloch Farmers' Market looks brighter, after Jo Swinson learned of plans to resume running the market later this year.

Following a meeting with Regent Centre Manager Peter Clark today, Jo revealed that the market looks set to take place on a monthly basis from October, in the Regent Centre car park.

Jo also met with local businessman James Little of Caurnie Soaperie, to discuss how he has been hit by the loss of the farmers' market.

Jo said:

"Though plans are not signed and sealed yet, it looks like the farmers' market will return to Kirkintilloch later this year, which is certainly something I would welcome. Credit must go to the Regent Centre for stepping in to provide a venue and a secure future for the market.

"It is important that ongoing support is given from East Dunbartonshire Council to make sure this a permanent solution for the market."

Commenting after her meeting with James Little of Caurnie Soap, Jo said:

"Local businessman James Little is in no doubt that his company Caurnie Soap, and others like it, are being harmed by the loss of the farmers' market in Kirkintilloch. They rely on the market to sell their products locally and have felt the financial effect since the market stopped being held.

"Against the backdrop of wider worries about the health of businesses in the town centre, there is a real sense of urgency about what can be done to give the local economy a boost. Reinstating Kirkintilloch Farmers' Market will give a much-needed vote of confidence for business in the town centre.

James Little of Caurnie Soaperie commented:

"The loss of the market in Kirkintilloch has been saddening. There has been a definite loss of custom to my business as a result.

"Many of the market's loyal customers are confused about the current situation. They don't know what's going on and are traveling further afield to other markets, which is against the ethos of the market being local, green and selling good fresh produce."

Related Links:

Caurnie Soap

Regent Centre, Kirkintilloch