A new initiative led by Bath and North East Somerset Council aims to explore opportunities for regular markets and town centre events in Midsomer Norton.
Local businesses, traders, producers, makers and event organisers are being invited to attend a free Business Breakfast at The Council Chambers, The Hollies, Midsomer Norton, on Tuesday 22 September from 8am to 10am.
The event is being organised through Somer Valley Rediscovered and will look at options for both indoor and outdoor markets, including one-off and recurring events.
Organisers say the aim is to help shape a new programme of local markets and town centre activity, while also discussing business support available in B&NES and ways of attracting more visitors, customers and activity into the town centre.
Guest speakers will include Peter Dixon, the High Sheriff of Somerset, Anna Sabine, MP for Frome and East Somerset, and David Gosset, Place Manager for the Somer Valley at Bath and North East Somerset Council.
The meeting comes as efforts continue to increase activity in Midsomer Norton town centre following the completion of the Island regeneration scheme.
Earlier regeneration plans for the town included proposals to increase the number of markets and events taking place in the centre of Midsomer Norton.
The original bid to the West of England Combined Authority for the regeneration scheme stated that the Island would host a regular market. It also included a proposal to establish a Midsomer Norton Market Company to organise and run markets in the town.
The Island redevelopment was completed in February 2025 and was designed to provide a public space capable of supporting markets and events. However, 18 months on, only a handful of events have taken place in the area, and the regular market proposed in the original regeneration plans has yet to be established.
The new Business Breakfast will give local businesses and potential market traders an opportunity to discuss what types of markets could work successfully in Midsomer Norton and how frequently they could be held.
The organisers are particularly interested in hearing from retailers, market stall holders, producers, makers and event organisers who may want to become involved.
Tea, coffee and breakfast will be provided, and attendees are being encouraged to bring business cards, promotional material and details of any promotions they have.
Attendance is free, but places need to be booked in advance through Eventbrite:
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/business-breakfast-midsomer-norton-and-radstock-tickets-1998360845082
