Identifying the lack of a regular large street market (notwithstanding the monthly small farmer's and artisan's markets) as one of the major factors reducing footfall in the town, the group aim to promote Chepstow as a "proper" market town once more.
Last year's Benchmarketing Study proved that even the small farmer's markets increase footfall in the town.
"Chepstow – chepe stowe – means market place or trading centre. We need to get it together and reclaim this history," said Ned Hayward, addressing a steering meeting of the public and retailers in the Drill Hall last Tuesday to discuss the revitalisation of Chepstow's markets.
The meeting allowed concerned parties to have their say on issues such as closure of the roads, where the market stalls should be pitched and what other issues may be raised for the town if there was a regular large central market.
Marc LePeltier, from Destination Chepstow, reflected the views of everyone present, "We all know that a good, vibrant market will bring footfall into Chepstow, but we want all businesses affected to have their say and help us refine our ideas for the markets."
Sandra Bushell from the Town Council has secured block trading rights from Monmouthshire County Council for up to 30 stalls for up to 14 days of the year (reflecting the current monthly farmer's markets).
Planning permission is needed to hold the market for more than 14 days per year which will most likely be granted as long as there is no major opposition from residents and businesses. The Town Council also has a small budget to provide street entertainment on market days to draw in the public.
There is permission for stalls on Cormelles Square, Manor Way, Bank Square and Beaufort Square. "If the market is spread throughout the town it would benefit shops and businesses everywhere," said Cllr Hayward.
One of the major points of discussion was whether the high street will be closed to traffic or not on market days.
Representatives from current market stall holders say it would definitely help to close the high street. Concerns were raised that good signage for the market was essential so people would not think the road was closed for repairs.
The question of which day to hold the market was also debated, with some traders preferring Sunday because it brought people into town when they may otherwise not have visited.
Other retailers pointed out that if they are closed on Sunday they would not benefit from the additional footfall.
"Chepstow is a lovely little market town that has lost its identity. Destination Chepstow are trying to resurrect it." said Mr LePeltier.
County Councillor, David Dovey gave his strong support for bringing a vibrant market back to Chepstow.
"We all need to put our money where our mouth is and make an effort to make this work."
The issue is in the consultation phase and organisers are keen for the public and retailers to have their say. Contact [email protected]">[email protected] (Sandra Bushell, town council); info@chepstowtown
crier.co.uk (Marc LePeltier, Chepstow Marketing); or [email protected]">[email protected] (Sarah Beynon, Chepstow Chamber of Commerce).