Daphne Jopson’s letter, Desperate need to find new home for Southend market, has spurred me give you my views on the subject (Echo, July 16).

Back home in Australia, in Perth and Melbourne, we have city farms. These are collectively managed by community groups and residents at minimal rent.

They produce vegetables, fruit and flowers throughout the year. There are even chickens providing fresh eggs for sale. Children love it.

People are welcome to wander along the pathways and one day a week there is a farmers’ market when produce from real farms come to town to join direct sales to the public.

To allow a sufficient area for pedestrians, prams, wheelchairs and cafe tables on either side of the road, tear up the concrete down the centre, bring in topsoil and fencing and provide a water supply and small gates at either end.

You have had the courage to deny vehicle access to the High Street. Go one step further and begin this exciting community-based development.

This scheme has already been a great success in Australia for many years.

You can solve two problems at the same time – a central site for the market, close to the bus station, and an opportunity for life to return to the centre of the borough once again.

At a time when the environment is so important it is very likely community groups and the council can find grants to start this off. Sponsors might also give a hand.

That’s how it all started in Australia and its popularity has gone from strength to strength.

Carole Perry
Visiting former resident
Moor Park Close
Leigh