BUSINESS owners in the West End are fearing for their future over plans to bring a farmers market to the area.

The Kibble Palace is being considered as the new location of the market which would be staged two weekends a month.

The potential plans have caused concern for independent shop owners who fear they may lose customers to the market stalls.

One business owner, who asked not to be named, said: “They call it a farmers market but it’s not - everything is brought in from outside.

“There’s already quite a few objections in. I use the garden quite a lot because it’s nice and relaxed and I think it’s going to have burger vans and things.

“There’s very few green, natural, relaxing places as it is.

“We’re worried about being pushed out. I feel like the Botanics is the wrong venue for it.

“It might put local residents and visitors shopping at the bespoke shops.

“I’ve got a friend who has a shop near Ashton Lane and they struggle to get footfall as it is.”

City Property, which manages the city council’s property and markets, is on the look out for an alternative home for the Queen’s Park market.

A spokesman confirmed that plans were in the very early stages and that members of the public, local councillors and traders will be able to submit objections.

It comes as another West End 'institution' announced its closure.

The Amber Restaurant on Byres Road announced that is to close today after more than 40 years of trading.

Owners of the popular Chinese eatery made the announcement on Saturday, leaving their many customers disappointed.

The restaurant is the latest business to end trading on the street in recent months.

A lack of footfall due to the closure of the Western Infirmary and introduction of parking charges have been blamed for putting pressure on independent businesses.

Sentry Box Toys, also on Byres Road, announced they were to close in July, after 30 years of trading.

Owner Claire Kilmurry said nearby hospital closures, a change in shopping habits and the rise of the ‘coffee shop culture’ on the street were contributing factors to her decision to shut.

Commenting on the surge of closures on Byres Road and surrounding areas, Councillor Martha Wardrop said: “The rising cost of overheads, online sales and increased competition from out of town shopping centres are resulting in closure of some long established businesses in Byres Road.

“Efforts to promote the area’s wide choice of shops and places to eat and drink are being developed by “Visit West End”, the Byres Road and Lanes business improvement district.

“There is a gift card available to help increase custom for local businesses.

“The local street environment including better pavements are part of a City Deal Programme of investment. We have to ensure ongoing support to local businesses is a priority as part of plans by Glasgow University.”