'End in sight' for Paddy's Market

Paddy's Market was started by Irish immigrants in the 19th century

Councillors in Glasgow have approved measures which could spell the end for the city's Paddy's Market.

Members of the executive committee voted to take over the market site's lease from Network Rail.

It means the authority can now go-ahead with plans to regenerate the area around Shipbank Lane, which has been described as a "crime hot spot".

Traders opposed the move and want to negotiate new leases before the council goes ahead with development.

The executive committee approved a report on the future of Paddy's Market, by 13 votes to four.

The report recommended that the council take over the lease of Shipbank Lane with a rent of £100,000 per year.

It stated that the council could "positively raise the profile of the area over the next five years" and possibly operate a new market and arts-related development.

SNP councillor Craig Mackay, whose ward includes Paddy's Market, voted against the move.

"Legitimate businesses in Paddy's Market provide employment for a significant number of people, and it's not the council's job to put these out of business," he said.

"Traders must be given the opportunity to negotiate new sub-lets with the council before their leases with Network Rail are terminated."