RESIDENTS have been urged to have their say over the future of Bingley Market to help it thrive in the years to come.

Bingley Town Council has sent out survey forms for people to fill in about the Town Square market, which now has just a handful of stalls. Organisers hope the survey will be the first step towards revitalising it.

The Bradford Council-run market, which is open every Friday and Saturday between 8.30am and 4.30pm, has historical significance in the town after Bingley was granted a charter to hold a market by King John in 1212. It is believed to be among the first markets of its kind in the country.

The survey aims to find out what type of support exists for a market, what type of market is wanted and when and how often people would like it to be held. Hard copies of the forms have been distributed at sites across the town including Eldwick Post Office, Cottingley Cornerstone and the Five Rise Locks Cafe.

Ros Dawson, Bingley Town Council chairman, said: “Like many residents, I want a thriving market and to regenerate our town. The aim of this consultation is to start to find out what might be viable.”

Bingley Town Council is being advised by the National Association of British Market Authorities, which it joined earlier this year. The survey has also been backed by Bingley Market traders.

Nick Walker, who runs a fruit and vegetable stall, said: “In the past, we’ve had some very good food stalls and anything to encourage more shoppers is welcome. I hope we’ll find out people want from the market and that it will get the investment it needs so that Bingley can have a market to be proud of.”

Richard Holmes, vice-president of Bingley Chamber of Trade and Commerce, said: “The market already brings people into the town and has the potential to increase footfall which will be good for all businesses.”

Councillor Alex Ross-Shaw, Bradford Council’s executive member for regeneration, planning and transport, said: “We have worked a lot with organisations such as the Chamber of Trade and Commerce in Bingley to support the market over the years and would be happy to also have full discussions with Bingley Town Council about the market’s future.” The deadline for completed surveys is Friday, June 30. Go to surveymonkey.co.uk/r/NGJ527G to fill in an online version of the survey.

For more information, call Ruth Batterley, Bingley Town Council clerk, on 07703 188660 or email enquiries@bingleytowncouncil.gov.uk.