THE demolition of York Road market will benefit traders in the area, Southend Tory councillors have said.

A survey on the 90-year-old market structure revealed potentially dangerous health and safety issues, which prompted its closure on October 17 last year.

Council officers have now recommended demolishing the boarded-up buildings. The cabinet is considering the plan today.

Milton ward Tory councillors Ann Robertson, Jonathan Gar-ston and Nigel Folkard agree this is the best way forward.

Mrs Robertson said: “It is vital action is taken now to support traders near the boarded market buildings. Their businesses have all been affected by the reduction in shoppers in York Road.

“The shopkeepers tell us they want the market building demolished without delay.”

Mr Garston added: “The demolition is not the end for the market. We are hoping it’s a new beginning.

“Once the site is cleared we will put up a number of covered stalls for market traders.

“These will be a temporary arrangement, while we gauge the level of demand for a fixed market area in the town centre.”

Mr Folkard added: “The benefits and future options arising from clearing the site outweigh retaining the existing building and the cost of maintaining or improving its security and appearance.”

Independent councillor Martin Terry said he would be fighting to keep a town centre market.

He said: “The Conservative administration have got no plans for a decent town centre market.

“The council has created this problem and the council needs to solve at."