INDOOR and outdoor markets across South Lakeland could be in line for a host of improvements over the next five years.

Enhancements being considered by South Lakeland District Council range from security improvements at Ulverston indoor market to the provision of electricity to Kendal street market.

The proposals, identified as part of a best value review, form part of an action plan drawn up by the council which won the backing of SLDC's economic development committee.

Coun Janette Jenkinson told the committee: "In Ulverston we treasure our indoor markets.

We get day-trippers coming in who make a beeline for it.

We have got an asset here.

It has great atmosphere but it needs brightening up."

Meanwhile, SLDC public services manager Morris Brundrett said the study had noted a degree of conflict between the new specialist markets, such as the farmers market, and more established traders which he hoped could be resolved.

"Anything we can do to make them feel like they are part of the same operation would be helpful," he said.

Other proposals included regular meetings with market traders, a computerised rents collection system and a web site for each market to increase public awareness of local producers.