Executive meeting on Tuesday, 12 May 2026

Written representation in relation to agenda item 6, York Christmas Market Operating Hours and Economic Impact

Dear Executive Members,

I would like to express my disappointment regarding the proposal for a six-day Christmas Market trading week. While I completely understand the desire to make the market enjoyable and manageable for everyone, I do not feel this proposal represents a balanced solution and instead risks being unnecessarily damaging to the many businesses that rely on the increased footfall generated during the Christmas season.

For many independent traders and city centre businesses, Christmas is by far the most important trading period of the year. Reduced trading days will inevitably have a significant impact on turnover, staffing hours, and business viability during the busiest season for local commerce.

Although Street Traders may technically still be able to operate when the market itself is closed, the reality is that our businesses rely heavily on visibility. During the Christmas Market period, our stalls are already significantly obscured by the huts, structures and infrastructure associated with the event. This loss of visibility is only offset by the increased footfall and activity generated when the market is open and operating fully. Closing for a day would therefore inflict significant economic damage.

The festive period is what allows many small independent businesses, including my own, to survive the traditionally very poor trading months from January through to March. Any reduction in trade during this period therefore carries consequences far beyond Christmas itself.

Thank you for taking the time to consider this point of view.

Many thanks,

Tom Jackson, Local Street Trader