CANVEY and Hadleigh’s planned new markets could already be in trouble - after Brexit funding concerns emerged.

Castle Point Council is hoping to oversee the return of two flourishing new markets set to open in December.

But at a meeting on Wednesday night councillors aired fears Brexit could have a negative effect on the plans.

The market ventures were awarded funding last year as part of a GoTrade project, including a consortium of 16 partners across the UK and France.

However, Canvey Independent Party leader, Dave Blackwell said: “We all laughed about Brexit but if Brexit does go-ahead, will this go with it?

“And that is a serious thing we have to consider.

“We could start up a very good market on Canvey and then the funding disappears. Then who is going to pick it up, the council?”

While Conservative Tom Skipp added: “The report refers to 16 partners of market towns in England and France, how confident are we that, depending on how Brexit pans out, that they will be coming here still? And how easy will it be for them to travel to trade?”

Although no definitive answer was given, due to the uncertainty surrounding Brexit, meeting chairman Charles Mumford joked he was sure the issue was top of the PM’s list while council leader Norman Smith, who insisted the money had been agreed.

Mr Mumford said: “Brexit is a bit above my pay grade, but I am quite sure negotiations are going well and I think our PM is out there at the moment, and I am sure the Canvey and Hadleigh markets are top of her list...” Mr Smith added: “The sum of money is agreed and that does not get withdrawn because of what happens in the future. “

The aims of the project are to explore how traditional markets can be used for job creation, skills development and growth. The overall project is set to cost £188,000, with the council contributing £66,000. If plans happen, the Canvey market would open one week day and Saturdays by the Knightswick Centre, fronting Furtherwick Road and High Street.