Tuesday August 9, 2011

Dear colleague,

Spotlight on Markets

It is only a few weeks now to our Annual Conference. Everyone should have received details of the programme together with information about the Annual General Meeting. Nabma’s Annual Report paints a very encouraging picture of the work we have done over the last twelve months and also the general state of the organisation’s financial position. A key element of our work in 2011 is to increase the value of the resources we provide to our members. The feedback we are receiving from a record number of health checks and training courses is that members really appreciate what we are doing. Thank you for your support. Hope to see you at Harrogate.

Blachere Market Awards

Your last chance to get entries in for Market Officer of the Year, Market Team of the Year and Market Innovation of the Year.  Deadline now extended to 29th August. Don’t miss the chance of getting national recognition.

Planning Policy Framework

We were disappointed that the latest planning guidance from government does not include any specific reference to markets.  The existing PPS4 which encourages local authorities to invest in markets is to be removed. Nabma will be making representations to government during the consultation period and we hope members will also make their own representations to emphasis the importance of markets to the High Street and Town Centre.

Mary Portas and the High Street

You will have received a copy of the Markets Alliance submission to Mary Portas, also copied to government, and I hope that individual members will make contributions to Mary Portas highlighting the role of the local market in your town centre. If markets are to have an impact we need to be visible. Mary has received lots of information about different aspects of town centres. Make sure she knows about markets. Simply visit Mary Portas’ website and follow the debate on town centres.

Diploma of Market Administration

Watch out for the launch of the Diploma at the Annual Conference and for further news that will be issued by the end of September.