Residents, traders and visitors are being asked for their views on proposals to re-establish a town's outdoor market.

Allerdale Borough Council has launched a public consultation into re-launching Cockermouth's weekly market, with everyone invited to submit comments through an online survey.

It is hoped that the market would provide a valuable service and business opportunities to those in the town, offer new entrepreneurs a low-cost option to trade, and provide additional reasons for tourists to visit.

Councillor Mike Johnson, leader of the council and Executive member with responsibility for Economic Growth, Community Development and Placemaking, said: “Markets can play a key role in creating additional vibrancy in our town centres and are also a great platform for new local businesses to take their first steps.

“As outlined in our 10-year Council Strategy, it is the ambition of the council to introduce new outdoor markets in the borough and we’re now officially starting the process of exploring reintroducing a market in Cockermouth.

"I’d encourage as many people as possible in the town to have their say and let us know what they think.”

To take part in the survey, visit rebrand.ly/cockermouthmarket. The deadline for the survey is June 25.

It has been several years since a weekly, outdoor market has been held in the town although recently the 800th anniversary of Cockermouth being granted a royal market charter was celebrated as part of a ceremony organised by the town’s Civic Trust.

The council also runs markets in Keswick, Workington, Silloth and Wigton and any traders wanting further details about having a stall at them – or at a potential future Cockermouth market – should contact Markets Manager Phil Byers on phil.byers@allerdale.gov.uk.

The council is also busy planning this year’s Taste Cumbria event which is scheduled to run in Cockermouth between September 24 and 26.