Dorchester markets are set to make less profit than expected this year, resulting in a cut in anticipated income for both Dorset Council and Dorchester Town Council.

At the same time, expenditure on running the markets is also slightly up, mainly due to increasing energy bills.

The latest figures predict a potential income of £133,700, against a budget prediction of £166,400 for all market operations, most of it generated by the weekly Wednesday stall market and Sunday car boot sales.

Trading problems during the past year, partly due to Covid restrictions, means that only half the expected £26,000 will be paid from traders using the Cornhill market at the top end of South Street.

A report to the joint Markets Panel said that, overall, £88,800 will be available at the end of the financial year, compared to a prediction at the start of the year of £122,000.

Of this, Dorset Council will get almost £49,300 and Dorchester Town Council about £26,500. About £13,000 will be transferred to the car boot reserve fund, down on the predicted £18,900.

Assumptions for the coming financial year is that most fees and charges will rise by 5%, although the Cornhill Traders budget has been frozen at the current level, pending discussions about the premium going forward.

Other reports due to go to the joint Markets Panel meeting today (Wednesday) will include verbal reports on improving safety in Fairfield Road, which has two-way traffic with cars parked either side and no pavement.

A verbal report on market activities and the car boot sale fund which has, in the past, been shared between local community groups will also be given.

Pic – Dorchester's weekly Wednesday market

Pic – Fairfield Road where pedestrian safety is due to be considered