Traders visit new multimillion-pound market home

Bilston market traders have visited their new multimillion-pound home to see the progress on the redevelopment, which now has a roof structure in place.

Traders joined City of Wolverhampton council leader Stephen Simkins, to view the new market, with contractor Speller Metcalfe remaining on track to complete the works in June, according to the local authority.

More than £8m is being invested in the redevelopment of the market.

It comes after the council provided a £2.5m uplift to the budget to adapt the design, after discovering difficult underground conditions.

The council said the new market would boast better access, upgraded toilets, enhanced stalls, a flexible events space and improved public areas.

Bilston trader Julie Emery, of JD Produce, which sells fruit and vegetables, said she was "very excited" about developments.

"It has been a very tough winter for the traders with all the bad weather and the constant rain but we are hoping that, when we return to our new market, the customers and the traders will be protected from the weather and it will make shopping at the market a better experience," she said.

"Bilston is a great little town and I am so pleased the council have invested in the market as it really did need a makeover."

Andrew Pritchard, of fruit and veg sellers GT Pritchard and Son, who is also market trader representative, said the site "looks amazing".

"[It] will work well together with the vibrant indoor market making Bilston a great place to shop with lots of variety and friendly traders," he said.

"As third generation traders, we are proud to be part of the exciting future Bilston has, making it one of the best markets in the country."

Nick Brown, another representative, who runs the Electrical Discount stall, added: "Bilston has always been a brilliant, famous market and this will enhance it for years to come."

Simkins said it was great to see the progress of the development.

"I'm proud to be delivering what will be the first class, improved and modern market that we promised traders, making it even better for them and their customers," he said.

"In just a few months, we will all be enjoying the absolute best market in the West Midlands."

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