Farmers could be working alongside traditional stallholders when the redevelopment of the 800-year-old Barnet market begins next year.

Market owners Nigel and Melanie Walsh this week announced plans to begin a year-long construction programme in spring 2004 at the St Albans Road site. During this time the market will be held in the Stapylton road car park.

More than ten per cent of existing traders, fearing disruption, have dropped out of the twice-weekly market leaving less than 40 stall-holders remaining. But Mrs Walsh has been hearing from specialist traders keen to fill any gaps.

She said: "Some traders are a little apprehensive about moving. In the short run it makes difficulties with the finances but if we lose a lot of trade between now and the spring we anticipate welcoming traders from farmers' markets to fill places. We have already been approached by a lot of people."

Farm traders would introduce more delicatessen and organic produce such as chutneys, cheeses, wines, cooked meats and live game.

"There is definitely a future in organic produce and specialist products," said Mrs Walsh. "I would never push a trader out but if we have gaps I will encourage farm traders to come forward."

The Walsh's secured approval for the market redevelopment in October after a one-year battle for permission. The centrepiece of the £1million make-over will be a glass-roofed stall area with nine bedsits upstairs in the part-three storey building.

January 29, 2003 16:00