A survey carried out to help plan the future of Norwich Market over the next decade has shown overwhelming backing for the historic hub – but concerns over its 'confusing' layout.

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Almost 1,000 people responded to Norwich City Council's survey as the authority looks to shape a new 10-year strategy for the market.

And the place the market holds in people's hearts was made clear by the fact 93pc of people said they thought it was an important part of the city and 91pc said they browsed or shopped there. The survey also revealed most people who did shop on the market spent between £5 and £10 per visit, with 42pc of shoppers aged between 45 to 64.

The fresh and pre-packed food and hot food stalls were by far the most popular stalls, according to the 981 people who completed the survey.

But there were calls for a less confusing layout, a wider range of products, more seating, the creation of a central square and more varied street food.

Paul Kendrick, the city council's cabinet member for parks, markets and open spaces, said: 'We had a whole range of comments telling us that 'we should not lose the market', 'it's famous', 'it's historically important' and is 'integral to the city's character'.

'The survey was widely circulated, available online and in paper format on the market itself, so I'm happy that a wide range of people were given ample opportunity to respond and give us their thoughts.

'It was one of the most successful survey responses for Norwich City Council in recent years. We rarely break through the ceiling of 500 responses, so 981 really is phenomenal.'

The council had posed 25 questions in the survey, including what people thought of the market, how they shopped and how they think the market could be improved.

Mr Kendrick said: 'We gathered a whole range of suggested improvements. Fifty-eight per cent of people said the layout was confusing and nearly the same number said the range of products needed to be wider.

'And many people commented that they wanted more varied and interesting street food and more seating on the market. Others would love to see it opened up a bit, with a central square or something similar.

'All in all, I am very pleased and I feel we have some really useful data which can inform decisions we make about the market in the future.'

What do you think of Norwich Market? Write, giving full contact details, to Letters Editor, Prospect House, Rouen Road, Norwich NR1 1RE or email eveningnewsletters@archant.co.uk