Revamped outdoor market set to open for business

The new £8m Bilston outdoor market is on track to open for business next month, officials have said.

The final day of trading at the temporary site on High Street is 29 June, with the revamped former premises set to re-open on 2 July.

The market boasted a new canopy to protect stallholders, easier access, upgraded toilets, enhanced stalls, a flexible events space, new signage, taxi drop-off and improved public areas, City of Wolverhampton Council said.

Trader Julie Emery of JD Produce, which sells fruit and veg, said: "I have enjoyed our time on the high street, but I am now very excited to move to our fabulous new market."

Stallholders visited the new site in March to see the progress of the redevelopment which has cost more than £8m.

Several features of the scheme were scrapped to save money including a proposed 12-metre "beacon", a number of benches and planters and plans for solar panels.

In December, market traders were offered free rent for two months amid construction delays.

The 200-year-old market's new events space will be used for the first time on 11 July for a celebration event officially marking the opening.

Council leader Stephen Simkins said: "The opening will be a memorable milestone not only for our historic market but also for the town of Bilston.

"I'm proud this council has delivered what is the first class, improved and modern market that we promised traders, making it even better for them and their customers.

"We can now all enjoy the absolute best market in the West Midlands with more modern, more accessible and more vibrant spaces for traders and the local community."

The council thanked traders for their patient during the work.

The market will be open on Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, between 08:30 and 16:00 BST each day.

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