A new job role has been created for the management of Surrey Street Market.

Croydon Council are looking for a market coordinator who will be responsible for the development of the market.

The aim is to improve the presentation and viability of the market as well as working with the police to make sure the market is a safe environment.

Paul Collins, Chairman of the Old Town Croydon Portas Team said it was one of the group’s key priorities to work with the council to bring in a market manager.

The role is for two years with the salary starting at £40,188.

Mr Collins said: “There is no easy quick fix to make Surrey Street what it used to be. Surrey Street is a community and, in many eyes, the heart of Old Town and a lot of people like it.

“While some may dwell on the past, time has moved on and the Market needs clear focus to look at all the ideas many passionate people have had about the future of the area.”

He added: “There is still a lot to do and a lot of issues which need addressing but we believe that the creation of the new Surrey Street Stakeholder group and the post of Market Manager is a clear step forward".

The Portas Team along with the Council have also carried out local elections in Surrey Street for representatives to sit on a new group which will look at improving the market further.