The Market had been in operation since 1822, but I recent years, after a major 'refresh' of its facilities and appearance took place in 2016 (the first full makeover since its redevelopment back in1971) traders have constantly reported problems.

This move to close the Market is reported to have been without warning. In a statement released online the City Council has said that:- "Regrettably, the business owners did not make a viable offer to repay the £1.7m debt that they owe the Council. The Council remains committed to a viable and sustainable future use for the site. This decision has been taken to ensure the Council offers best value for all residents and subsidising individual businesses does not offer that. The closure of the market hall does not impact on St John’s Shopping Centre St Johns Shopping, which remains fully open for business and is unaffected by this action."

In response on Twitter, the affected Traders have responded on the account:- @StJohnsMkt going by the title St John Market Official saying:- "We are in legal negotiations. At least our solicitor. An Officer of the Court thought so. A Council of gangsters acting beyond the law. Spending £2m on the Comms Team to spin. It's a peppercorn rent market. The charges they quote are made up.... Their own consultation said the St Johns Market was a perfect for the City, if cherished and looked after. They turned off lifts. Stopped the escalators. Locked the toilets and took off the signage.... the actions of gangsters. They have taken a planned illegal action once they got the brilliant greatie money as a smokescreen. They can replace a 6 day a week King's Charter Market 1207 with 1day. It's been their plan all along."

What are your thoughts on this matter? Please leave your views below...