A GERMAN-style market could be on the cards for the city centre this year with the district council set to discuss plans for the specialist event at next week’s cabinet meeting.

The Christmas market is currently intended to be located near the Cathedral to create a festive atmosphere and officials are hoping it will attract new visitors and support the economy as part of the local tourism plan.

Some chalets will also be located near the Clock Tower in order to link the Christmas market to the regular Wednesday, Saturday and Farmers’ Markets.

Produce on sale will include seasonal items such as stollen, mulled wine and one-off handmade goods to provide a “distinctive Christmas experience”.

Research has reportedly shown that hosting a Christmas market can give the local economy a welcome boost.

St Albans’ ‘competitor city’ Salisbury introduced a similar market in 2012 which attracted just under 100,000 visitors and generated £3.6 million.

People spent on average £28 per person in the Christmas market and a further £35 in surrounding shops, restaurants and the existing market.

Cllr Beric Read, the council’s portfolio holder for community engagement and localism, said: “Our research shows that a Christmas Market will bring people to our historic city who do not normally come here.

“Evidence suggests that they will spend money at the Christmas Market as well as at our regular markets, shops and restaurants and pubs.

“In the long term, there is potential to raise funds that could be ploughed back into the economic development of the city centre, including the twice weekly markets.”

A planning application will be submitted shortly and the public are invited to attend the cabinet meeting at 7pm next Thursday, June 20, at the civic centre to discuss the proposed market.