Free live music, theatre performances and a fashion show are all on the agenda for St Albans Charter Market, under plans to create a greater attraction for the community. 

According to St Albans District Council, the number of traders working at the market has been rising steadily on Saturdays following efforts to improve the market's appeal.

Last month, the Saturday average was 77 traders compared to 68 in February 2022 – a 13 per cent increase.

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The rise comes after St Albans City and District Council, which runs the twice-weekly market, delivered a number of new initiatives.

These include efforts to attract new entrepreneurs and a loan offer to established traders of a new gazebo in St Albans colours of blue and yellow.

New traders include Matt Mager Beats & Beigels and zero waste grocer Sanjay, The Fruit and Veg Man, who turns all unsold food into relishes, sauces or compost.

Work on attracting other traders to broaden the market’s appeal continues while new Charter Market signage is to be strategically placed on stalls.

The new all-weather gazebos in uniform colours are already being distributed to traders, with thirty expected to be in place by Easter.

Other initiatives include allocating more free space to local charities, community groups and non-profit organisations so they can promote their good causes.

Councillor Danny Clare, lead councillor for markets, said: "The markets and events team, with the support of St Albans BID and market traders are delivering a plan to enhance the Charter Market offering and experience, and ensure there’s something to see and do on every visit.

"The market is already a major attraction and we want to ensure that is the case for each and every visit, both for residents and visitors.

"We are working with traders to provide products that are front of mind, whether that be the meal that was made on MasterChef this week, must-have fashion items, the new must-have health supplement, it will be there, and you’ll know about it up front.

"We are looking to make the market a focal point not just for shopping but also for cultural activity, empowering local performers with a unique opportunity to reach new audiences and publicise their shows."

The events programme also includes a roving dinosaur puppet on Saturday, March 25, to publicise Dinosaur World Live at the Alban Arena.

There will be a performance of School of Rock by St Albans Musical Theatre Company on Saturday, April 8 and some live theatre from Ovo Theatre on Saturday, May 6.

A fashion show, featuring pre-loved clothes and accessories, will take place on Saturday, May 13, organised by Hope House and St Albans Action for Homeless.

Councillor Clare added: “We have already had a terrific response from community groups to our plans to involve them in the market with live music, theatre and a fashion show lined up.

"We provide the platform, our partner will provide the entertainment, and at the same time, have the opportunity to spread awareness of their work and offer visitors the opportunity to contribute and get involved.

"A full calendar of market events will be available on our social media channels, council website and Enjoy St Albans."

Community groups, charities or community-oriented businesses interested in providing entertainment or promoting a good cause at the market can find more information at stalbans.gov.uk/st-albans-market-activities-and-events.