TWO new businesses in Trowbridge believe Castle Place market could be a hub for new start-ups but the town centre will continue to have empty shops if rents remain as high as they are.

Paul McKinley opened Castle Place Butchers on Thursday and Sarah Grey launched her Cheese, Chutney and Chuckles business a few weeks earlier.

Mr McKinley and Ms Grey both pay £140 for their respective stalls, which include running water and a shutter, selling their goods for six days a week – both are enjoying a steady start.

The pair said the market is a great place for a start-up but that buying a shop in the town centre was impossible, due to ‘ridiculous’ prices.

“I just started but I am really happy with how things are going,” said Mr McKinley. “I have been a butcher for 41 years and after all this time, I finally have a place of my own.

“If it wasn’t for centre manager Julie Davis, this wouldn’t have been possible. I am buying from Collicot in Gloucester, everything is off the bone, nothing is boxed off and it is all fresh. I offer whatever people want, unlike supermarkets.

“It costs about £5,500 for four months rent, deposit, solicitor fee and all other costs – that is just ridiculous.

“These prices are driving businesses out of the town. Something needs to be done because there are too many empty shops. Hopefully this can be the turn of the tide.”

Mrs Grey, who has worked in catering, customer service and care, also believes more needs to be done to attract businesses to Trowbridge.

“I wanted to try something myself and I am glad I did. It is a struggle at times but that is part of life,” she said.

“Castle Place used to be the hub of Trowbridge and I think it can be again. However the rent in the town is too high and that is not going to attract businesses – in fact it will put them off.”

“I get my cheese from Longman’s in Somerset, my chutney from Dorset and Devon and I also do sliced meats. It is an exciting time.”

Amanda Stacey has just opened Aray Jewellery in The Shires and is enjoying it so far.

“It is exciting for me to do something new like this. I have had a lovely welcome and I hope it continues,” she said.

“I sell art deco, art nouveau, sterling silver, pearls, precious stones, amber, hand made and bespoke goods, all sorts. I thought the rents were quite reasonable but I know many have left the area which is a shame. I however am looking forward to the future.”

Julie Davis, centre manager at Castle Place market, said: “There are 16 stalls available at £97 for a six-day week. People can sign up for a six-month licence and then a five-year lease and we are looking for some new talent to join our ranks.“These are two great additions and hopefully more will follow.”