Traders in Colchester have mixed reactions on the market's relocation to the town centre.

Although it may bring in more shoppers, it could block delivery entrances and be too fragmented, the Federation of Small Businesses' north east Essex branch has claimed.

The stalls are returning on Friday, April 19, after market sellers were angry at being "sidelined" to Vineyard Street from the High Street more than seven years ago. But permanent traders may not be so pleased with the move.

"Many local traders would prefer to have the market together and we would ask if the market traders themselves would like this," said vice chairman Gordon Levett.

Also the owner of the Trinity Galleries, Mr Levett added: "One very serious problem will be the further restrictions for collection and delivery of goods from or to our craft shop.

"Some carriers will just not deliver when the market is on. We will have huge problems."

But Jack Mitchell, of the Market Traders Association, said the imminent move had brought only good news.

"We have been waiting seven and a half years for this - it will only increase visitors to the town," he said.

Dave Barham, of Colchester Council, said delivery barriers will come down an hour earlier, at 10am on Fridays and Saturdays, but the disruption to traders should be minimal.

Published Wednesday, April 10, 2002