HALF a century ago York’s main market moved from Parliament Street to Newgate. Now the traders are back, albeit in a brief return.

It’s all part of a revamp to the 50-year-old, purpose built-stalls at Newgate which for some time, now, have been crying out for a bit of sprucing up.

Following 18 months of talks with traders, residents and businesses, City of York Council unveiled its designs last May, which included the updating of snickleways connecting the market with Shambles.

Those consulted agreed the measures would be a shot in the arm for the city’s market place. Now it’s the moment of truth. The refurbishments have started and are expected to last 16 weeks, with work due to be completed in time for the extended St Nicholas’ Fair in late November.

In itself this is ironic, because at least once a year a market must be held in Parliament Street to retain the ancient charter and St Nicholas’ Fayre is normally when that happens. Still, at least there will be no problems meeting the charter requirements this year.

Our shopping habits may have changed radically over the years, but markets are still an important part of any town or city. They are where you are guaranteed to find local produce, as shoppers realised to their relief during the horse meat scandal.

So it is good to see investment being made in York which holds one of the most important open-air markets in the north of England, and has done since medieval times.