Work is now well under way on the project which will boast better access, a new canopy, upgraded toilets, enhanced stalls, and improved public spaces when completed.
Councillor Bhupinder Gakhal, City of Wolverhampton Council Cabinet Member for Resident Services, said the project was progressing well and when finished would give Bilston residents the “best market in the West Midlands.”
Minor tweaks to elements of the design were published this week and Councillor Gakhal reassured traders they were still getting the scheme as promised.
“Firstly, I can assure every trader and every customer to Bilston Market that we’re fully committed to delivering the redevelopment of the scheme that we agreed,” he said.
“There are always minor changes and tweaks to designs as you progress but I want to be absolutely clear that they will not impact the fantastic new look market.
“We’ve also made sure our traders are being well supported while the works take place. We have given traders a rent free period between 22 December to 14 February. That’s in addition to the 25% rent reduction already applied for the duration of the works.”
Minor tweaks to the designs include the exclusion of a bench in the southern car park, a decorative ‘totem pole’ and solar panels on the canopy roof – however they can be fitted at a later date.
The council also confirmed its commitment to signage by the entrance of the indoor market facing the Black Country Route, which will be addressed once the major works are completed.
Councillor Gakhal added: “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 market works, including the Black Country Route public realm improvements, the High Street Link scheme and £20 million Plan for Neighbourhoods Programme, which we’ll be working closely with local residents on to spend on projects around the town.”
City of Wolverhampton Council also jointly committed £15,000 with the Bilston BID for events and activities to help boost footfall and support businesses during the works.
