Indoor market traders are keeping a close eye on future plans

Carmarthenshire Council's executive board met on Monday and agreed a timetable for developing the huge parcel of land in the centre of town.

The land will be marketed nationally with a deadline for the submission of proposals set for 4 August.

The site has been used as a car park since the old cattle sheds were demolished following the building of a new mart on the outskirts of town three years ago.

Once we have a shortlist the schemes will go out to consultation so residents and businesses can see what the options are Regeneration director Dave Gilbert

Fears that Carmarthen's indoor market could also be moved to make way for a new Debenhams store have sparked strong opposition with 35,000 people signing a petition opposing such a plan.

Council bosses have since pledged that the indoor market will not be moved outside the town centre - although it is understood Debenhams still has an eye on Carmarthen.

Director of regeneration Dave Gilbert said: "This week we will now start marketing the site in the usual national publications.

"Prospective developers will have until 4 August to submit their plans and shortly after a shortlist will be drawn up.

"Once we have a shortlist the schemes will go out to consultation so residents and businesses can see what the options are.

"We hope to be in a position to name the preferred developer before the end of the year."

He said the authority recognised the importance of the indoor market.

Baby

"Any proposal for a development would seek to complement and add value to that,'' he added.

Following the launch of the petition and a demonstration on the steps of county hall, Carmarthenshire Chief Executive Mark James promised any development proposals would include the market as an "integral part of the town."

But campaigners have promised to keep a close eye on developments.

The Vicar of Carmarthen, Canon Patrick Thomas, said appropriate development of the former mart site would be welcomed as long as it did not detract from existing businesses.