Armidale Dumaresq councillors unanimously approved the plan at their latest meeting.

 But the market’s association  said while they appreciated the “support of the public in embracing the market” they did not yet have the ability to expand.

“It does not currently have the resources to significantly expand the total number of stalls or open an additional market day,” The Armidale Farmers’ Market Association said in a statement.

“It will continue to operate on the first and third Sunday of every month in Curtis Park and look to manage its growth carefully, over time, as resources permit.”

According to the approved plan, the market and car boot sale can now grow from 30 up to 100 stalls. Food and beverage available will also increase from just three available stalls to up to nine.

The market now has the potential to also run on the second Sunday of the month.

The decision has been met with praise from Mayor Laurie Bishop and the business community. Cr Bishop said he was over the moon the market committee had sought to expand its offerings.

“I think it is a great idea,” he said. “We have a lot of produce in the region, we should be proud of showcasing it.”

Armidale Business Chamber executive officer Tracy Pendergast said she was excited at the potential for growth and drawing more visitors to Armidale.

 “If visitors happen to be there they are often surprised at how diverse the offerings are,” she said.

“It gives out of towners another reason to spend their hard-earned dollars here.”

The businesswoman believes that local markets are also a great opportunity for traditional shopfronts to get additional exposure. 

“Shops in the Mall are often open when the markets there are on once a month,” Ms Pendergast said.

“While they might not trade much it is a great opportunity for branding.”