A new policy and guidelines have been drafted by the City of Sydney in an effort to encourage the growth of market businesses.
The Draft Markets Policy and Guide to Setting up Markets will provide operators with a guide for establishing markets, introducing a fee structure, minimising the adverse social, economic or environment impact in the local community caused by markets, and ensuring markets are well-maintained and easily accessible.
“These market places offer a terrific opportunity to revitalise public spaces, bolster the local economy and create jobs, while giving food producers, artists and designers an opportunity to showcase their wares and grow their business,” Lord Mayor Clover Moore said.
“Providing everything from fresh food to goods and services, markets are an anchor for the community to come together, get to know one another and celebrate everything local. By drawing people to an area, they also help boost trade for existing shops, benefiting the local economy.”
The City will be treating markets held less than four times a year as events and will manage them through the event approval process. Those taking place over four times a year are will need to submit a market site application for assessment by the City.
Karen Lebin, South Sydney Rotary President, said the new initiative is a good move for Sydney’s markets.
“It’s important to have an understanding of the process of launching and establishing these community markets, and guidelines like these are a good step. We also welcome the idea of a fair and consistent fee structure,” Ms Lebin said.
“Markets like Green Square contribute a lot to the area – they help people forge friendships and are a place of enjoyment for the local residents and businesses by building a strong sense of community in urban areas.”
Starting March 23, the draft, guide and schedule will be available for review and comment at sydneyyoursay.com.au.