Art Deco tiles have been uncovered during the building process

Although the anchor retail outlets will not be revealed until the end of October, many local traders will continue with their business in the market.

During the last three weeks, the demolition team has uncovered more history of the island, finding Art Deco tiles and timber vaulting.

It is hoped they will remain as features in the revamped building.

'Time and attention'

Brett Allen from McAulay, the company behind the scheme, says the project has not been easy because of keeping a balance between conservation and commercialism.

"There has been a lot of time and attention put in by the officers of the IDC and heritage and indeed by our development team," said Mr Allen.

"So it was bound to take time. I don't think there is any fault in it I think it is just a case of getting what is mutually acceptable, the blend between the conservationists and the commerciality of a shopping centre."

And he said he is delighted with the work that has been done so far.