MAJOR plans have been unveiled to bring back the markets to Wimborne Minster. 

The plans, which are part of a new half-a-million-pound investment, could bring back markets to the town after trading ceased in December 2021 in Station Terrace. 

The market’s owners have plans to relocate the market to the showground field, which they own, along the B3078 near Julian’s Bridge. 

John George, owner of Ensors which operates the market, said he wants to gauge public opinion on the proposals before continuing with any plans. 

Bournemouth Echo: Wimborne Market sketchWimborne Market sketch (Image: DMW Architects)

He said: “We feel Wimborne is a minster market town and we are offering to build a market.  

“We want to find out if residents want a market again or lose it forever; it’s always been a minster market town and we know the traders are very much in favour of bringing back the markets.” 

Read more: Last ever sale at Wimborne Market after 165 years of trading

Bournemouth Echo: John George, owner of the Wimborne MarketJohn George, owner of the Wimborne Market (Image: Daily Echo)

It is proposed the historic market, which ceased trading last year after more than 165 years, will be built on greenbelt land owned by Mr George, who said it will have a rural, olde worlde feel to it thanks to livestock, timber building designs and a new lake at the back of the land. 

“People like getting into the country so this new market could provide the local people with a good source for buying local products at very reasonable prices and also attract holidaymakers into Wimborne,” he added. 

“Wimborne markets were once one of the most famous in the country and one of the largest in the south of England.  

“People would purposefully come on holiday to Bournemouth or Wimborne just to come and see the markets. 

Bournemouth Echo: The showground field past Julian's Bridge where the market could be builtThe showground field past Julian's Bridge where the market could be built (Image: Daily Echo)

“This is a very special thing and the way the plans have been drawn are very sympathetic to the greenbelt area. 

“A few years ago, Salisbury moved their markets out of the town centre and onto greenbelt land. Taunton has done it as has Exeter.” 

The new market will have on-site parking, a fishing lake and picnic area with seating. 

Meadow land with natural old meadow grass and flowers will surround the fishing lake area.  

Dorset Council have received the planning application for a new Wimborne market.