Leighton Buzzard Market will be smaller over the Christmas break - but traffic restrictions remain
Leighton-Linslade Town Council is reminding people that traffic restrictions for Leighton Buzzard Market will still be in place during the Christmas break.
The council says the marked may be closed – or will be operating with a significantly reduced number of traders – on Saturday 27 December and Tuesday 30 December.
Final confirmation on trader attendance will follow, but market activity is expected to be minimal due to the Christmas and New Year break.
Despite the reduced market presence, the Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) for the High Street will remain in place, as this is managed and enforced by Central Bedfordshire Council. This means that parking restrictions still apply, and drivers may incur fines if they park within the restricted area during the usual market hours.
Usually, the Traffic Regulation Order is a positive and important part of running the market, as it helps keep visitors safe by restricting vehicle access during busy periods. It also allows the Town Council to deliver additional activities and entertainment, particularly during school holidays, creating a more welcoming and family-friendly High Street environment. However, even with fewer traders expected on 27 and 30 December, the TRO remains legally in place.
The Town Council is taking steps to help prevent confusion by placing additional signage and cones in the affected areas. However, we must stress that fines cannot be revoked if members of the public do not follow the rules set out in the TRO.
A spokesperson for Leighton-Linslade Town Council said: “We appreciate that the reduced market may cause some confusion, which is why we are putting in extra measures to highlight the parking restrictions. However, the enforcement of the Traffic Regulation Order sits with Central Bedfordshire Council, and fines remain legally enforceable.”
Further updates on market operations over the festive period will be shared as soon as possible.