A POPULAR street market which has proved a big hit in Braintree is set to be launched in Witham in an effort to boost trade.

Braintree Council has announced plans to host three different street markets in the town before the end of the year, with the first scheduled for next weekend.

Bosses say the initiative will mainly see traders offering a range of unique gifts, homeware and garden accessories, but it will also feature a mix of food and drink.

Two more street markets will be held in Witham throughout the summer in a bid to boost visitor numbers and assist the existing Saturday market.

Witham Chamber of Commerce chairman Tina Townsend, said: “We are excited to see the street market concept coming to Witham and hope that local residents will make every effort to attend and support it, establishing the town as a great place to stop and shop in.”

Similar to Braintree, the street market concept was also trialled in Witham on a one-off occasion last year and was hailed a success by organisers.

The council says the street market will run alongside the existing Saturday market, based at Lockram Lane Car Park, in an effort to attract new people.

Bosses at Causeway House have been looking to revitalise the traditional market in Witham by adding dozens of new traders in recent months.

Economic development bossCouncillor Tom Cunningham, Cabinet Member for Economic Development, said: “The street markets are a fantastic addition to our events calendar so we’re really excited to bring them back to Witham this year.

“Having an attractive, vibrant and modern market adds huge value to the economic, social and cultural fabric of town centres, so we’d encourage as many residents and visitors to spend the day in Witham and enjoy what’s on offer in the town.”

Witham Town Council has also given its backing to the launch of the street market scheme in the town.

Town clerk James Sheehy said: “Members are delighted to welcome back the Witham Street Market in recognition of its huge popularity and showcase of interesting retailers and wares.

“We hope our local citizens will take advantage of this exciting attraction as it returns in July.”

The street market will be held in Newland’s Shopping Centre on Saturday, July 13.

A list of traders attending is available at braintree.gov.uk/withamstreetmarket.