A new partnership has been launched to support markets across South Yorkshire

The South Yorkshire Markets Partnership launched this week aiming to strengthen markets as key contributors to regional economic growth, town centre regeneration and community life.

Led by Barnsley Council, the Regional Market Groups strategy, championed by NABMA National Association of British Markets, the NMTF, National Markets Trader Federation and the All Party Parliamentary Markets Group will bring together all four councils from across the region, providing an opportunity to share best practice, source funding and keep markets are the forefront of local and national legislation, aligning with SYMCA visions and goals.

Once fully established, the South Yorkshire Markets Partnership will be open to partners across the SYMCA region, supporting a collaborative approach to strengthening town and city centres, sharing best practice and innovation, coordinate advocacy for policy and funding and support community and economic initiatives.

Councillor Andy Cudworth, Cabinet Spokesperson for Regeneration and Assets, said: "Markets are vital to local economies and sit at the heart of our thriving communities.

“In Barnsley we’ve always championed markets and we’re proud of its history as a thriving market town for over 777 years. This partnership gives us an opportunity to build on that legacy by connecting markets and communities across South Yorkshire, sharing ideas and tackling common challenges together.

“By working together, we can support market growth alongside town centre regeneration, creating sustainable, inclusive destinations that are fit for the future.”

Speakers at the launch included NMTF Chief Executive Joe Harrison, NABMA Chief Executive David Catterall, Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Markets Group Julia Buckley MP and Rachel Harban, Barnsley Markets Manager.

Following the launch event, attendees including MPs, representatives from Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government and partner councils, visited Barnsley town centre, including the SEAM Digital Campus and Yorkshire Roses, Tommy Taylor Memorial Bridge, The Glass Works and Market, The Community Diagnostic Centre and recently the opened NHS Outpatients in the Alhambra.

David Catterall, NABMA Chief Executive, said: “Markets have a unique role in supporting local economies, creating opportunities for traders and bringing communities together. This new South Yorkshire partnership is a positive step in recognising that value and strengthening the support available to markets across the region.

“NABMA champions this collaborative approach, which will help share best practice, encourage innovation and ensure markets continue to play a central role in vibrant, inclusive and sustainable town centres.”

Joe Harrison, NMTF Chief Executive, said: “We know that markets play a vital role in South Yorkshire’s growth story.

“By supporting small businesses and young traders, embracing sustainability and digital innovation, and aligning with town centre regeneration, we can work together to ensure markets continue to thrive and provide valuable opportunities, drive inclusive growth and grow local economy.”