COUNCILLOR Tudor Thomas has expressed concerns that the shutting of the front entrance to Abergavenny market for a further six weeks is another blow to the livelihood of the traders and stall holders.

The market’s refurbishment which was due to be completed last November has been extended until April, and Councillor Thomas has pointed out that the five month delay has hit traders hard.

Councillor Thomas told the Chronicle, “To my mind it’s not good enough. This is a massive million pound project and you’d expect deadlines to be met on time.

“The closure of the front entrance for a further six weeks is going to reduce footfall to the market dramatically. I realise that visitors can still use the Brewery Yard entrance but how many visitors to the town will be aware of that?

“The entrance of Cross Street is traditionally used to coax people in. When it’s all shut-up it hardly looks welcoming.

“I know that MCC have reduced the rent for market stall holders whilst the refurbishment is going on, but times are hard, and what with the refurbishment, the opening of Morrisons, and now the concerns surrounding Coronavirus, everyone who relies on the market to make a living are facing something of a hammering.

“I shall be raising my concerns with the council in the hope of exploring ways in which we can help.”