Bilston outdoor market ready for business following £8 million redevelopment
Construction of the new multi-million-pound Bilston outdoor market is now complete, with principal contractor Speller Metcalfe officially handing the site back to City of Wolverhampton Council on 24 June.
The market boasts a new canopy to better protect traders from bad weather, easier access, upgraded toilets, enhanced stalls, a flexible events space, new signage, taxi drop-off and improved public areas. Shoppers will be able to experience the redeveloped market for the first time when it opens on Thursday 2nd July.
More than £8 million has been invested in the scheme through a combination of Government and council funding.
The new flexible events space will be used for the first time on Saturday, 11 July to hold a celebration event officially marking the opening of the new market.
Councillor Stephen Simkins, City of Wolverhampton Council Leader, said: “Thursday is going to be a milestone day for the town of Bilston as the traders welcome customers to their brand new market for the first time.
“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 everyone.
“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.”
Bilston outdoor market trader, Julie Emery of JD Produce, selling 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.
“The new market is looking great and we’re hearing lots of positive comments from the public who are keen to visit us when we return to our original outdoor site.”
Councillor Qaiser Azeem, the council’s Cabinet Member for Resident Services, said: “I am really looking forward to customers seeing the new facility we have created for our dedicated traders to thrive and provide an outstanding community shopping experience.
“I’d like to thank the outdoor and indoor traders for their support and patience throughout the redevelopment works and welcome them to their new home.
“This is, of course, just the first phase of our multi-million-pound investment in Bilston. There’s lots more to come that will complement and enhance the new market; Black Country Route public realm improvements, High Street Link scheme, £20 million Pride in Place programme, which we are working closely with local residents on to spend on projects around the town, and construction of a new Health and Wellbeing facility next to the leisure centre.”
Rob Lashford, regional director at Speller Metcalfe, said: “It’s been fantastic to work with City of Wolverhampton Council to deliver this important regeneration project for Bilston.
“The new market provides modern, high-quality facilities for traders while creating a welcoming destination for residents and visitors alike.
“We hope the market will provide a more accessible and enjoyable experience for visitors while helping traders to thrive for many years to come.”
The project was procured through the Crown Commercial Services framework.
