EMPTY buildings across Colchester have been suggested as ideal locations to create an indoor market.

The Gazette revealed Colchester Council is undertaking work in a bid to revive the market which is held every Friday and Saturday in High Street.

Alternative locations, a new Wednesday date and reducing fees will be part of an action plan.

A report showed April to June this year saw the number of stall holders taking up pitches fall to a record low.

Town centre bosses have admitted action needs to be taken to prevent an “ongoing deterioration”.

Now people across the town have come forward to suggest empty buildings which could be used to create an indoor market similar to the one run in Chelmsford.

The former Odeon in Crouch Street and the now empty former Peacocks store in the Priory Walk have both been mooted.

It follows suggestions the former Co-op building, which part of the St Nicholas Square development, would be an ideal place for a market.

Dave Wilson said: “When I was growing up there always was a good market at the back of Halifax and where the library used to be.

“Why can’t it go on the old Peacocks site all in one place and under cover like in Sheffield.”

Nicky Hart added: “It needs to be on a permanent indoor site with toilet facilities like many other UK towns and cities.

“The old Co-op or Odeon would be ideal places but obviously this would involve a bit of expenditure to get the buildings up to scratch.

“The current market is just not in the right place.”

The Gazette asked Colchester Council if it would consider an indoor market.

A spokesman for the council said: “We welcome ideas for other locations to host Colchester Market and would be willing to consider any indoor venues that are fit for purpose.”