New vision sets out future for St Nicholas Markets

Plans to secure the long-term future of St Nicholas Markets have taken a major step forward with the publication of a new co-designed vision. 

Developed in partnership with traders, businesses, residents and visitors, the vision will help shape the future of one of Bristol’s most important cultural, economic and heritage destinations. 

Endorsed by the Economy and Skills Committee on 28 September 2026, following one of the most extensive engagement exercises ever undertaken for the market, the vision aims to ensure St Nicholas Markets remains a vibrant, inclusive and resilient destination for shopping, food, culture and community, while preserving its distinctive Bristol identity for generations to come. 

It sets out the ambition to transform St Nicholas Markets into a commercially independent, financially sustainable, cultural and economic hub that serves Bristol’s communities while remaining true to its unique independent character and heritage. 

Councillor Andrew Brown, Chair of the Economy and Skills Committee, said: “St Nicholas Markets is one of Bristol’s most treasured places, loved by residents and visitors alike and vital to our city centre economy.  

“What makes this vision so important is that it has been shaped by the people who know and care about the market best, particularly the traders whose businesses are at its heart. Through extensive engagement, we’ve heard a clear message that people want to protect what makes St Nick’s special while ensuring it can thrive for years to come. 

“This vision gives us a shared roadmap for the future, helping us invest in the market, support independent businesses, celebrate its unique heritage and create an even better experience for visitors.” 

The vision identifies that some improvements can be delivered quickly, while others will require longer-term investment and collaboration.  

Short-term improvements

Alongside longer-term ambitions, the council will begin work on a series of operational improvements over the next 12 to 18 months to address issues highlighted through engagement and improve the day-to-day experience for traders and visitors.  

Actions include the creation of a new Market Stakeholder Group, bringing together traders and key partners to help shape future decisions and strengthen governance arrangements. 

Establishing the group was a particular priority of the Economy and Skills Chair. An initial meeting has already been held to discuss terms of reference and invite nominees for a Chair of the Group. 

Long-term vision

Over the coming years, the vision will focus on nine strategic objectives designed to strengthen the market’s future, including: 

• Establishing a clear shared identity and ethos for the market 

• Making better use of technology and data  

• Creating a transparent governance structure by forming the Market Stakeholder Group 

• Improving branding, signage and wayfinding 

• Supporting new and emerging businesses through incubation opportunities 

• Improving the layout and visitor experience 

• Delivering heritage and investment projects to improve vacant and underused spaces 

• Exploring more consistent opening hours 

• Exploring future operating models for the market. 

The council has already allocated £450,000 of capital funding over three years from 2027/28 to support future improvements, while external funding opportunities will also be pursued. 

Lynn Hanby, St Nick’s Traders Steering Group, said: “We’ve come a long way over the past year, and there is a lot in this Vision that traders welcome. What matters now is how it is put into practice – making progress on the practical improvements that can increase footfall and support viable independent businesses, while preserving the character and diversity that people value so much about St Nick’s. 

“The new Stakeholder Group gives us an opportunity to build on the more constructive way of working that has emerged, so that traders and other stakeholders are involved early enough to help shape significant changes while they are still being developed. If that collaborative approach continues, I think we have a much better chance of making positive changes without losing what makes St Nick’s special.” 

Established in 1743, St Nicholas Markets can be found in the heart of Bristol’s Old City. Home to 62 indoor traders, the market supports more than 130 jobs and attracts more than three million visitors each year. The market also provides a platform for up to 50 outdoor traders throughout the week.  

The engagement included more than 60 hours of dedicated discussions, involvement from over 55 stakeholders, feedback from 863 members of the public and four meetings with the Trader Steering Group, established to ensure traders played a central role in shaping the market’s future. 

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