What is a market town without a market?
That is a question that some people in Pudsey have been mulling.
The town, which nestles between Leeds and Bradford, grew prosperous on the wool trade and was reportedly the most polluted place in Britain at points during the industrial revolution.
The smog may have gone, but a consultation was needed to clear the air on what to do with the local market.
Nearly 750 responses to the survey, run by Leeds City Council, were received about how to rejuvenate the space so that it works for businesses and customers into the future.
The existing sales area, which operates on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, will be opened up to private providers on the weekend day.
The council wants to see selected operators deliver a rolling programme of specialist markets, with themes including street food, vintage and arts and crafts.
That is a bit like the programme of food festivals and other events which take place in Leeds city centre’s bustling Kirkgate Market
Just under 90% of people who responded to the consultation backed the idea.
When I met friends Brenda Lumsden and Janet Wallace on Tuesday morning, the pair thought the decline of the market mirrored the state of the town.
“I think it is telling of the times, I do not think it will get any better, no matter what they do,” explained Brenda.
