PLANS to redevelop town centre markets and secure a big name department store have been delayed as a result of legal action being taken by a number of market traders, who say they were not consulted properly with regards to the plans.

The traders are also demanding compensation for what they claim will be a considerable loss of earnings over the period the markets would close as a result of the redevelopment.

The multi-million pound development, to be carried out jointly by St Helens Council and MEPC, has been put back three months while the legal proceedings to obtain possession of the markets are concluded. As a result the new market will not be open in time for Christmas next year.

Councillor John Fletcher, chairman of the council's Development Committee, said: "It is unfortunate that some of the traders have chosen to take this action and delay the scheme which will attract new investment and create jobs.

"It is simply not possible to let a contract while uncertainty exists as to when possession will be obtained, While all involved in the redevelopment are disappointed by the delay, they remain fully committed to the scheme."

Mike Smith from MEPC, added: "We are keen to get started on this scheme as soon as possible and the tactics currently being employed by some of the market traders will benefit no-one in the long run."

Graham Cross, chairman of the St Helens Market Traders Association, said: "Ninety five per cent of the traders wished to take this legal action, but due to some of them not being able to afford it only 60 per cent are actually involved, we still have full backing ofother traders.

"The reason for the legal action is that the council are expecting traders to vacate the present markets at their own expense into a multi storey car park and then when the new market is completed they are expected to move back again at their own expense, which for some traders could mean a cost of £15,000 to £20,000.

"Added to this is the main problem of no protection whatsoever for any trader who goes out of business as a result of lack of trade in the temporary market."

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