Stallholders will be back in business after losing their town centre pitches three years ago.

Ramsgate Market is expected to mount a return on June 14 following a long-running saga, with the opening date already pushed back.

The stalls were snubbed in October 2020 after the operators pulled out.

Pitches were temporarily reopened in Staffordshire Street car park but closed altogether when interest dwindled.

Following a false start at the beginning of this year, Thanet District Council has confirmed the reopening will finally go ahead.

But despite the market being set to move back to King Street, Queen Street, and High Street, traders fear the Friday opening hours, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., could hamper footfall.

Jim Brady, who previously petitioned for the market’s return, was forced to shut his Heaven and Hell Gifts in Ramsgate High Street in May last year.

He says the shop’s success took a hit during Covid and claims if the stalls returned sooner he would still be open today.

“Without the market, so many people stopped coming into town as they lost that community hub as soon as the market disappeared,” he said.

“The market is coming back on Fridays, which, from a business standpoint, they’ve got it at the day and time when people will be working. Surely, a Saturday market would have been more beneficial.

“I’ve spoken to a few who used to have a pitch at Ramsgate Market. They said it’s been too long, and they’re not returning; they’re settled where they are, they won’t be back.

“I’m very annoyed with Ramsgate Town Council because if they had taken it on, any money could have gone back into the town.

“I’ve got no idea why they didn’t take it on when they had the opportunity.

“I think Ramsgate is beautiful, but it’s been neglected for far too long.”

In June 2022, TDC approved plans to restore the market and secure a new operator.

They also removed existing street trading and hawking restrictions on High Street, King Street, and Queen Street.

Finally, in October, after a thorough review of potential operators, it was announced that Bray Associates would add to the 13 markets they manage in other districts and run the Ramsgate market.

Their role on behalf of the council will include managing the market, choosing traders and setting stallholder fees.

Cllr Ruth Duckworth (Lab), cabinet member for regeneration and growth at TDC, said: “We recognise the importance of having a weekly market, and we are delighted that Ramsgate Market is set to reopen.

“Local people have been keen to see the market return for a long time. I hope they will come along to help make its return a success.

“Markets bring increased footfall to town centres. I am confident that the new market will attract more shoppers to Ramsgate town centre, helping existing businesses to thrive and providing an exciting new opportunity for traders.”

Speaking after the appointment, Brian Nunan, managing director of Bray Associates, said its acquisition will “ensure the fantastic opportunities of a thriving town centre market are available to all”.

The search for traders who want a stall is also underway.

Anyone who is interested is urged to call 01895 639912 or email@bray-associates.co.uk