Shoppers in Braintree and Witham are being asked to provide their views as part of a review of the towns' markets.

Undertaken by specialist independent Market consultants Quarterbridge, the comprehensive review will look at the role the market plays in the towns, the size and location, the needs of the market infrastructure and the current management arrangements.

Councillor Chris Siddall, cabinet member for Prosperity and Growth, said: “The visibility and profile of the markets mean they play a central role in the town centres, and a good market can attract footfall and aid other businesses in the town.

“However it is also important that we ensure that our markets maximise their potential and it is a number of years since a review of this nature has taken place, so we really want to assess the role they play, and the impact they have on the towns.”

“Quarterbridge have a good track record in working with markets across the country and over the coming weeks they will be speaking to both shoppers and also the traders to gain an insight into everything from what is on offer, to how much we charge for pitches to the waste processes involved for the markets.”

To participate in the survey visit either www.quarterbridge.co.uk/braintree for Braintree or  www.quarterbridge.co.uk/witham for Witham  email views to bdcreview@quarterbridge.co.uk or write  to: Braintree and Witham Market Review, Quarterbridge, 2 West Stockwell Street, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1HQ