A NEW management team will take over the running of Dudley Market in July.

The “strong and ambitious bid” put forward by Tudor Markets saw the company rise to the top during what Dudley Council bosses described as a “robust tender process”.

Tudor Markets currently deliver daily, weekly, monthly and seasonal markets for four London councils and directors James Willis and Danny Watson – who have worked their way up from being market traders to operators and contractors – said they were “excited” to bring their shared 50 years experience to Dudley.

However many traders remain unhappy about the tender process, according to Wayne Thomas, who runs a vaping and smoking accessories stall on the High Street market.

He said traders were still smarting over the lack of consultation and the current working terms and conditions being omitted from the tender document.

Current rules mean stallholders suffering from chronic illnesses can have time off without paying rent, providing they provide a doctor’s note.

Traders also benefit from rent-free holidays, with the entitlement differing, depending on how many days individuals work but there is no guarantee that will continue once the new management in place.

Mr Thomas, who has worked on the market for 20 years, said the potential changes to the terms and conditions, coupled with fears that rents will rise, has led to “a lot of uncertainty about the future”.

But Mr Willis, who has moved to Sedgley ahead of the takeover, has vowed to “work closely” with both the traders and the council for the benefit of the market.

He said: “We understand the passion, the graft and the pride market traders have for their businesses and their town.

“We are aware of the traders’ concerns about terms and conditions and will be meeting with traders to discuss this in the coming weeks.

“With regard to the pricing structure, we can assure the traders that we are very competitive.”

He continued: “I am a local resident and a former trader and I am keen to ensure the success of my local market, individual traders and the town centre as a whole.

“We know that markets are the lifeblood of many towns and we are keen to work with the traders, local retailers, businesses and residents to review how best to increase footfall and attract more traders and commodities.”

Alan Lunt, Dudley Council’s strategic director for place, added: “Dudley Market is at the heart of Dudley town centre, which is why it was essential that we picked the strongest team to build on the work and investment delivered by Dudley Council.

“We are excited to be working with Tudor Markets whose application really stood out against some very good local competition in the tender process.”

“We’ve had some very positive discussions with the team and we’re looking forward to welcoming them and their ambitious plans to Dudley.”