Stevenage’s indoor market is to be rebranded by the council in a bid to help traders tackle the economic downturn.

Stevenage Borough Council last week backed plans to rebrand St George’s Market in an attempt to attract new shoppers.

Details of what will be done and how much will be spent are yet to be finalised, but will focus on promotional material the authority said.

Cllr Joan Lloyd, executive member for resources, said the authority, which owns the building, recognised it was an “important hub” for the town, “so we want to do everything we can to make sure it thrives”.

Peter Mason, chairman of the traders’ association, said at the moment there is a lack of awareness of what the market offers.

“Many people do not realise the market is on our doorstep providing a range of great products and niche services that can’t be found on the high street, so hopefully the rebranding will get the message out.”