The Leader of Douglas Council says rents in the Market Hall will not be reduced during the re-development of North Quay.

Yesterday, a trader claimed a lack of parking and access was leading to a downturn in trade.

However, David Christian says most market trade comes from people who live in the area and if rents were reduced ratepayers may end up subsiding the stall holders.

He also believes people are more likely to shop in supermarkets for many of their groceries.

Mr Christian (pictured) says he likes to have a market in the town, but only the traders themselves can turn things around: