‘CAR boot’ stalls could be the answer to traders deserting Colne’s Saturday market.

Two stallholders have left since the turn of the year, citing a reduction in town centre footfall on what is traditionally the busiest day.

They have been replaced by new traders, but another two stallholders are considering leaving amid concerns that the market cannot compete with the new Sainsbury’s store.

Now, in an attempt to draw shoppers back, bosses are considering holding a car boot sale alongside the usual stalls every Saturday.

Tony Brown, of Liberata, Property Services, which manages the market, has provided a report for Pendle’s Colne Committee, which says the move could generate additional income.

But he added there were also a number of concerns over how it would affect the market’s image.

He said: “Whilst having additional stalls at the market may initially attract some additional footfall to the market, this benefit may be outweighed by the negative impact of such a proposal.

“There are concerns that allowing car boot stalls would take something away from the current look and feel of the market which, whilst quiet at the moment, still looks attractive and welcoming.”

Mr Brown said trestle tables selling second-hand goods might look unattractive, and the additional competition could persuade existing traders, who are struggling, to leave the market.

If any of the car boot people were found to be selling dangerous items or counterfeit goods, it would bring the market into ill-repute, he added.

There is enough space to accommodate around four or five trestle tables.

Councillors sitting on the borough’s Colne Committee will discuss the proposal to introduce the car boot stalls when they meet at Colne Town Hall, next Thursday at 7pm.