Council looks to private business to take over running of Carmarthen Mart

Carmarthenshire County Council is looking for a business to operate its livestock market in Carmarthen.

The council intends to offer the lease of the mart at Nant Y Ci by open-market tender. Businesses are being invited to get in touch with the council if they are interested in knowing more about the tender opportunity.

The Carmarthen mart is a traditional and prominent fixture in Carmarthenshire’s vibrant agricultural industry.

Occupying a purpose-built modern building, the mart has two auction rings with associated livestock pens for cattle, sheep and pigs. There are loading areas to the side and rear with lorry parking and wash down facilities, a reception and mart office, café area and kitchen facilities, a bar, and ten business units occupied by agricultural supply/service companies.

The council is looking for applicants that can demonstrate proposals for a progressive and forward-looking regional livestock market, operating regular livestock auctions and managing all ancillary functions including sub-letting of concessions, catering functions, and business units.

The council’s Rural Business Development Centre could also be included within the lease.

Cllr David Jenkins, the council’s Executive Board Member for Resources, said: “We are absolutely committed to supporting Carmarthenshire’s farming community and rural economy and recognise the important role the Carmarthen mart has to play in that.

“This is an exciting opportunity – as well as operating this busy mart, we hope to attract applicants that will also look at wider opportunities to create a viable and sustainable enterprise. We very much look forward to seeing the mart operating again.”