A plan to move Hobart’s Farm Gate Market to Liverpool Street has won strong support from nearby property owners and businesses.
The Hobart City Council consulted people near the proposed site about relocating the Sunday market from Bathurst Street.
Of those who responded, 89% supported the move and 8% backed it if their concerns were addressed. The council said one respondent was strongly opposed.
The market has operated on Bathurst Street since 2014, but strong winds have prompted the council to consider a new home.
Market operator Madi Peattie previously told elected members that gusts funnelled between tall buildings were creating safety risks, blowing over equipment and forcing some markets to close early.
Wind consultants identified Liverpool Street, between Murray and Harrington streets, as the preferred option because of its low-rise buildings, flatter terrain and existing awnings.
A council report ranked it the best of five locations assessed.
The market attracts up to 6,500 visitors each Sunday and is estimated to generate $31.2 million a year for the local economy.
Most concerns raised during consultation related to parking and vehicle access, including rear access to properties, private Sunday parking and access for tradespeople.
In response, the council proposed free on-street parking in the CBD on market days, permits for the Centrepoint car park and opening the car park at 8am instead of 10am.
Market staff also offered to help businesses move goods.
The council said the measures addressed most concerns and it would continue working with those still affected.
A nearby nightclub that trades into the early morning supported the move but said patrons leaving the venue would need to be managed while the market was being set up.
The council contacted 34 property owners, with 12 responding. Of about 36 businesses in the area, 24 responded and all supported the move.
The findings will go to the Hobart Workshop Committee on Monday, July 20, with a decision on the market’s future contract to follow.
