THE increase of markets in Salisbury is making it a “struggle to survive”, according to restaurant owners.

Karl Regan says stalls and food vans are regularly set up in front of his restaurant, Leonardo’s, in Oatmeal Row.

And with business rates of £30,000 a year, the once-thriving business is struggling to stay afloat, he says.

“It is a constant struggle to survive at the moment.

“I do not know how long the business will last, and with the increase in events [on the Market Place] it is only going to drive us into the sea.”

The 57-year-old says the positioning of stalls on the square is becoming more of a problem as events like Foodie Fridays become more frequent.

He said despite numerous calls, Salisbury City Council “do not seem to care about the issue that is their creation”.

He said the council was being ignorant by blocking his restaurant with obstacles.

“Why can’t the stalls be placed on the other sides of the square?”

Mr Regan’s wife Nicki also works at the restaurant, and has grave concerns for the future.

“It seems that every time an event is held, there are more and more stalls.

“If all the restaurants were blocked, then it would be fine, but they aren’t, and it is our business that is facing a constant battle to survive.”

Henderson’s Artisan Bakery, next to Leonardo’s, is in a similar situation.

Owner Paul Henderson was told to write a letter to Salisbury City Council, listing his concerns.

“I think the location of the stalls and vans are very unfair, and I made this clear to the council.

“It is not the stalls’ fault, but the council has made it very hard.”

Mr Henderson added: “The Tuesday and Sunday markets are part of the city’s history, and there are no problems with that.

“It is the occasional markets, and the other events that are having a negative impact.”

Salisbury City Council has been approached for comment