The shock resignation of Cllr Patrick McAuley from Stockport Council’s Executive raises some very serious questions about how Cllr Sue Derbyshire as Leader of the Council has handled plans for the future of Stockport Market.

We repeat our view that residents and traders deserve to be listened to. There is no point in launching a public consultation if you have no intention of considering the responses.

As a Group, we responded in detail to the Council consultation believing in good faith that the Executive genuinely wished to listen to the views of stakeholders and Councillors.

It is deeply disappointing that it transpired Council officers were instructed to produce a report on the future of the Market without considering the results of the two consultations. It brings the entire process into disrepute and undermines faith in the local democratic process.

We have been very clear about how the Lib Dems have failed to make a good enough case in their plans for the Market, with little or no evidence provided as to how a food and drink offer for Stockport Market might work.

Traders themselves agree that something needs to be done to help revive the Market, and we believe it should be possible to work in partnership to agree on what this change might look like.

The Labour Group remains committed to ensuring that our historic Market has a future, attracting back shoppers with an improved offer whilst supporting traders who are committed to Stockport to grow their quality businesses.