Burton Market Hall occupancy drops as council reviews future plans
Market sees decline but remains pivotal in Burton's regeneration
A comprehensive two-year review on Burton Market Hall has been presented to council leaders, revealing significant occupancy challenges but identifying potential roles in the town's wider regeneration.
Occupancy rates plummeted from over 55% in 2023 to just 10% in 2025, as detailed in the report. Despite this, the market hall is seen as an integral part of Burton's future renovation efforts.
Although explicit details remained confidential, a consultation in 2024 identified key focus areas for the market's growth—artisan food and drink, independent retail, co-working spaces, and places to relax.
The historic market, dating back to 1883, faced closure for roof repairs in 2025 but reopened in May this year. Feedback from traders indicated challenges such as falling footfall, insufficient trading hours, and lack of business support, balanced by praises for affordable rent and good security.
Councillor Kim Smith, chairing the scrutiny committee, commented on the findings: “The committee found that many of the challenges experienced in Burton Market Hall are not unique, like markets across the country it has faced pressures from changing consumer behaviours, online shopping, increased competition and the wider decline of traditional market trading.”
To incentivise traders' commitment beyond a single day, a discount up to 30% is offered, reducing daily rent from £40 to £28 for those committing to extended periods.
Pop-up spaces are also available at a fixed rate of £12 per day, catering to flexible trading needs.
The committee examined other towns to understand Burton's challenges better, noting Crewe Market Hall's 2021 redevelopment towards a food-led venue as a comparative model.
Eight key recommendations emerged, including improving digital infrastructure, enhancing food and beverage offerings, and utilising non-trading days for events.
Councillor Smith emphasised the strategic importance of the market hall, asserting its potential role in Burton's regeneration despite current difficulties.