SIR,
With regard to the Monmouth Market I think that no news probably equates to bad news.
During the recent "information gathering" fiasco those fortunate to get an appointment to express their opinions were assured by Mark Gardner that his report would be submitted within days and a decision would rapidly follow.
Almost a month has passed and no decision has been forthcoming.
It has been fairly obvious for some time that the overwhelming majority want the market to return to its rightful place in Agincourt Square.
The Monmouthshire County Council (MCC) officers had probably hoped that the evidence gathering would come up with enough information to allow them to justify their decision to keep the market in the car park.
Given the depth of feeling to the contrary has obviously created a major problem and the lack of a firm decision can only mean that they are once again using delaying tactics instead of accepting what everyone wants and return the market to the square.
Rumours always abound in Monmouth and the latest rumour that MCC are going to try and appease the protesters by holding the market in the square on a Friday and in the car park on a Saturday is, I hope, a rumour without foundation.
MCC must realise that the need for the market to return to Agincourt Square is not just for the benefit of some traders it is vital to ensuring the economic success of the town and ensuring that Monmouth remains a vibrant town which will continue to attract locals and visitors alike.
This entire fiasco has gone on for long enough. There have been many calls for a public meeting and I believe that one should now be held and which must be attended by all our elected representatives as well as the relevant MCC officials.
Only in an open forum will we be able to find out the rationale for the MCC decisions and why our elected representatives continue to remain silent.
If the powers that be do not arrange this meeting then I believe the people of Monmouth should call a meeting and if necessary lodge a vote of no confidence in the relevant parties.
Neill Bell
(Monmouth)