THE owners of Hatherleigh Livestock Market are this week holding a second public consultation event, to discuss the site's future.

The consultation, oranised by developers LHC and Vicks auctioneers, takes place in Hatherleigh Community Centre tomorrow (Friday) from 2pm to 7pm.

The aim is to obtain the thoughts and aspirations of those who live in the town and nearby communities.

Vicks Auctioneers are looking for alternatives for the site. The market attracts visitors to the general market and farmers' auction. There are also auctions for antiques, household furniture and effects and sundries at the site.

The first consultation event was held in July. Key concerns raised by local people at the event include the volume of housing units which could be built on the site, lack of employment for new residents, and additional strain on the town's infrastructure.

At a public meeting in August, around 100 residents turned out to a meeting to discuss how to protect the livestock market.

At the meeting, a team of ten residents was elected to a committee to discuss a plan of action for all those objecting to the closure of the market.

The committee has been working with the town council to discuss the latest updates on the site. They have also been encouraging those opposed to the redevelopment to lobby councillors and the MP.

On Tuesday, the team took leaflets around the market to traders, to gauge their opinions on redevelopment plans.

Chairman of the public committee, Neil Price, said: 'Our work with the town council has been good. Generally speaking, it seems they are in favour of trying to keep the market.

'In doing this, there are three key things to consider. We need to keep the weekly pannier market, under the town's control. We need a large covered area for this market, and plentiful free parking is essential.'

A spokesman for LHC said: 'Following the consultation event in July, the design team have considered different proposals for the site and how they might assist in regenerating the town should the livestock market need to close.

'The comments received at the event have had a very real impact on the shape of the emerging proposals. As part of the plans it is proposed the Tuesday pannier market would remain.'