Noise order 'threatens market'

Shoppers are being asked to sign a petition

Stallholders in Luton say their market is under threat after complaints about early morning noise.

Council officials have banned traders at Marsh Farm market from setting up their stalls until 0700 GMT - three hours later than usual.

They took the decision after receiving legal advice about a complaint from the licensee of a nearby pub.

Trader Peter Clarke branded the order as "absolutely ridiculous".

'No consultation'

"I've only got an hour in which to set up. I've got 10 minutes left, my stall is only half set-up, my wife is in tears."

He said it the decision had been made without consulting traders.

Some larger stalls are said to have already pulled out from the market.

Councillor Brian Devenish of Luton Borough Council said environmental health officials had looked into a complaint and sought legal advice.

Shoppers' petition

"It was confirmed that from four o'clock there was undue noise that constituted a nuisance.

"Therefore we believe quite firmly, on legal advice, if the complainant brought an injunction he would have been successful."

Shoppers are now being asked to sign a petition against the order.