What we want to do is this:

The Livestock Market buildings are in regular use for only two half-days a week. This no longer makes sense and the market operators are already looking to establish a new future elsewhere before 2013. That will allow this central location to be redeveloped – with great sensitivity in terms of scale and design – to play a much fuller role in the commercial life of the town, while maintaining the town’s heritage. In fact, we see a redeveloped Livestock Market as nothing less than the catalyst to reviving the old town.

The site creates the very best opportunity available for a modest-sized high quality food store, with a few additional smaller retail units ideally suited to attract modern high street retailers to Malton, and a generous provision of parking. The location is very well linked to the centre and within easy walking distance.

Our ideas contrast sharply with those of the District Council who want to build a superstore away from the heart of the town.

The town can only support one more supermarket, a fact set out in Ryedale District Council’s own Retail Capacity Study (updated 2009); so we have to get it right. This scheme represents the chance to provide such a store at the same time as adding support for existing shops and services. A new shopping centre on these lines would not draw custom away from existing retailers, but actually encourage more local people to visit the town centre and to make the most of their trip by calling at other shops too. The whole experience of shopping in Malton can be made more attractive. This in turn could attract visitors from well beyond the town, essential if we are to maintain its vitality.

It will be a big improvement on the sheds and pens of the Livestock Market. The plan is to build a two storey building, architecturally sympathetic to its historic surroundings and the adjoining conservation area. It is an invigorating project which Malton Town Council and the Chamber of Trade are both expected to welcome. It is also expected to fit comfortably with the emerging Neighbourhood Plan which the Town Council will soon present in draft.