**Proposals Unveiled to Relocate Historic Llanelli Market and Traders Amid Car Park Concerns**
Carmarthenshire Council has released early plans to move the historic Llanelli Market and find a new site for its dozens of traders, with the potential demolition of the ageing multi-storey car park currently situated above the indoor market. The announcement signifies a key moment in ongoing efforts to rejuvenate the town centre while ensuring safety and sustainability for its celebrated trading hub.
At present, four options for the market’s future are being actively considered. Among these is the possibility of temporarily moving retail activities to an alternative venue during redevelopment, with a return to an improved facility on the existing market site. Other options detailed by the council include a move to Market Street South, complete relocation to the former Woolworths building on Vaughan Street, or a hybrid strategy that would see some traders based in the old Woolworths premises while others occupy vacant retail units elsewhere in the town centre.
The urgency to progress with these proposals is being driven by concerns over the decades-old car park, constructed in 1969, directly above the market. While council officials emphasise it remains safe for public use, they have acknowledged that the structure is approaching the end of its intended lifespan, requiring a long-term relocation plan for both the market and the car park users.
Traders were recently updated on these proposals at a dedicated briefing, marking the start of what the council described as a collaborative decision-making process. Councillor Hazel Evans, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Leisure, Culture and Tourism, highlighted the importance of trader input, stating: “This meeting is merely the first step on a journey with our market community, who will be integral in shaping the new chapter for Llanelli Market.”
The former Woolworths building appears to be the frontrunner among proposed sites, especially as it was acquired by the council in 2018 for potential commercial development, with support from the UK Government’s Levelling Up Fund. The council must now move swiftly to meet pressing funding deadlines, planning to submit a pre-application for redevelopment of 8-12 Vaughan Street within weeks—even as they stress that final decisions are yet to be taken. If plans proceed, the new market could include both ground and first-floor trading areas, echoing similar layouts found in other established indoor markets.
Traders themselves have responded with a mixture of concern and pragmatism. Sharon Bowler, who runs Beauty 2 Bubbles at the market, reflected on the uncertainty, explaining: “We always knew the car park wouldn’t last forever, and although the plans are a surprise, we’re keen to hear more—especially about what it will mean for the market’s Cowell Street end where we’re based.” She, along with other stallholders, stresses the importance of providing space for all 50 current businesses, noting, “If it’s a pleasant, practical new venue, that’s positive for everyone. The town centre really needs a boost.”
Some traders noted that the possibility of moving had felt inevitable given the car park’s age, but underlined that detailed consultation and clear information would be critical in the months ahead. The council has reassured participants that the market has no intention of closing but is rather seeking to secure its future and to help revitalise Llanelli’s broader retail environment.
Meanwhile, questions remain about parking provision if the car park is eventually closed and demolished. With 527 spaces available but an average use of just over 200 daily, council officials believe alternative public car parks in the town can make up the shortfall. Monthly inspections and maintenance of the current market site are ongoing to ensure safety until final decisions are taken.
The next steps involve widespread consultation and a formal pre-planning application for Vaughan Street, not least to preserve the option of a market move and ensure eligibility for government regeneration funding. However, the council is keen to emphasise that all options remain under discussion and that community feedback will shape the ultimate outcome.
As Llanelli faces this pivotal decision over its cherished market, the story highlights broader challenges familiar to historic town centres across Wales—balancing heritage and community needs with the push for renewal and adaptation in changing times.