IT IS a depressing sight to see so many empty stalls in York's Newgate Market these days.

It's in the heart of the city, but lacks the hustle and bustle that should radiate from such a vital sector of the city's retail activity.

Critics have claimed for decades that the market should be moved back into the unmissable location of Parliament Street. As that is not going to happen any time soon, City of York Council has to find a way to inject new life - and cash - into an asset that has served York loyally for many centuries.