Concerns have been raised by traders and local residents regarding conditions at a Oxford market square following the transfer of management to a private company.
The site has become the subject of complaints involving alleged anti-social conduct and substance misuse.
Gloucester Green Market remains under ownership of Oxford City Council.
Control of the venue was delegated to LSD Promotions in 2013.
During a scrutiny committee session held earlier in the month and a subsequent full council gathering on October 5, representatives from the trading community, neighbouring enterprises and local inhabitants outlined what they described as deterioration of the facility.
Those speaking expressed the view that the location should serve as a meaningful resource for both the community and the wider city.
Isabel Tucker, representing the Friends of Gloucester Green Market collective, addressed the council sessions.
Tucker has resided in the Jericho district for 23 years.
Her position called for the council to reassume direct administrative responsibility for the market in order to confront persistent problems.
According to Tucker, the collaboration between Oxford and LSD Promotions Ltd has failed to produce satisfactory outcomes from the perspective of numerous residents and other parties with interests in the facility.
She stated that the dominance of street food offerings had diminished the range of other market activities, resulting in a contracted and restricted operation.
Tucker noted that several existing traders express dissatisfaction while others have departed entirely.
Visitor numbers have declined and vendor earnings have suffered accordingly.
She described how residents have experienced sleep disruption stemming from anti-social incidents linked to the removal of overnight security personnel.
One occupant of Gloucester Green flats reportedly informed her that keeping windows closed had become necessary due to overpowering drug-related odours.
Tucker articulated her vision for the venue, emphasising that it represents more than merely a revenue-generating enterprise and possesses considerable potential as a community resource.
She highlighted that the market currently offers the most competitive commercial rental rates in Oxford and could perform functions including supporting independent enterprises, retaining wealth within the local economy, addressing food security matters, minimising waste and granting residents access to affordable goods through physical shopping.
The existing contractual arrangement with LSD extends until March 2028.
Tucker concluded her address by urging the council to optimise utilisation of this resource following that date.
She suggested that if returning operations to council control proves impractical immediately, alternative non-profit approaches merit consideration.
Tucker recalled that a farmers market previously operated at the site and observed that many individuals mourn its loss.
Liberato Maioriello operates Gino’s Spaghetti House, a restaurant situated within the market area.
He characterised the market as an entry point to the city and voiced apprehension regarding impacts on established businesses, residents, workers and visitors.
He expressed the view that the current market has transformed into predominantly a substantial hot food operation for much of the week.
He contended this places it in direct competition with existing dining establishments.
Maioriello additionally noted that vehicles and trailers positioned throughout the area have compromised access, movement and the visual character of the surroundings.
Councillor Mark Lygo provided a response to the concerns raised.
He acknowledged that Gloucester Green Market constitutes a significant community asset generating value beyond financial returns.
The council affirmed its dedication to fostering the venue’s continued prosperity.
He expressed disappointment that persistent negative commentary, which he characterised as unsubstantiated, continues to circulate.
According to the councillor, direct feedback received by the council contradicts the perspectives presented during the meetings.
He cautioned that adverse publicity would ultimately harm market traders, comprising small independent enterprises that the authority and elected members ought to be supporting.
Lygo clarified that the prevailing management contract remains in effect until 2028 and that observation of conditions will continue.
He stated that determining future operational frameworks would be premature, particularly given anticipated local government reorganisation.
Any subsequent arrangements would require evaluation based on circumstances existing at the appropriate time.
The councillor confirmed that as 2028 approaches, the council would arrange suitable consultations before implementing determinations regarding the market’s future operation.