Bedford’s market traders have expressed their disappointment that the Borough Council have seen fit to raise their rents by 10%.
The tenants’ rents are subject to annual review, but they were hoping that the council would take into account the decrease in footfall in the town centre before implementing another cost in these difficult times.
One trader (who wishes to remain anonymous) who spoke to the Bulletin said: “The council boasts that Bedford is the town of markets but this seems to have a hollow ring about it.
“The Mayor has seen fit to freeze fees and charges for residents but seems to think it’s OK to hammer small traders.
“And the recent announcement about the £60,000 investment in the market seems to be paid for by us tenants!
“The council are adding to the ‘cost of living crisis’ as we will have to pass on the extra costs put on us.”
